Death Toll Reaches 500 in DRC Ebola Outbreak

The ongoing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has surpassed 500 deaths, according to the latest data released by the Congolese Ministry of Health.

As of now, health authorities have reported 1,561 confirmed cases, including 506 fatalities. In addition, 253 people have been declared cured, while 628 patients in need of treatment are currently being held in isolation or hospitalized.

The outbreak, declared on May 15, has now spread to 36 healthcare zones across the provinces of Ituri, North Kivu, and South Kivu, where community transmission of the virus is ongoing.

Ituri remains the hardest-hit province, accounting for over 91% of confirmed cases and nearly 84% of deaths recorded since the beginning of the outbreak, according to Congolese authorities.

The World Health Organization (WHO) notes that the Bundibugyo strain of the virus continues to evolve rapidly and spread persistently. As of July 1, at least 10,821 individuals who had been in contact with confirmed cases were being monitored for health follow-up in Ituri and North Kivu as part of efforts to contain the disease’s spread.