DR Congo Ebola outbreak worsens: Death toll hits 1,033, over 2,500 cases reported

Kinshasa: The death toll from the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has risen to 1,033, with the number of confirmed cases increasing to 2,536, the country's health authorities said on Thursday.

According to the latest situation report, 506 patients have recovered, while 738 others remain in isolation. No new health zones have been affected, leaving the total number of affected zones at 47 across five provinces, with 46 still experiencing active transmission.

Health officials said the outbreak remains in a phase of sustained transmission, with a high level of virus circulation. They cautioned that recent fluctuations in reported cases should be interpreted carefully because of reporting delays and the gradual consolidation of data.

Treatment facilities continue to face pressure, particularly in North Kivu, where 182 patients are in isolation despite the availability of only 141 beds.

Speaking at a press conference in Bunia, the capital of Ituri Province and the epicentre of the outbreak, national Ebola response operations manager Adelard Lufongola said case numbers had stabilised in some areas. He added that the outbreak was showing a slight downward trend, but cautioned that it was still too early to say it had reached its peak.

The outbreak, caused by the Bundibugyo virus, was declared on May 15 in Ituri Province. Health authorities said population movement, insecurity, artisanal mining activities and cross-border travel with Uganda and South Sudan continue to drive the spread of the virus.

Meanwhile, the deteriorating security situation in eastern DRC has further complicated response efforts. UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said at least 30 people were killed and more than a dozen injured in attacks in Beni territory between July 13 and 19.

The violence has displaced civilians and restricted humanitarian access to affected communities. According to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, at least six humanitarian organisations, including partners involved in the Ebola response, have suspended movements to several localities in Beni region.
 

IANS