Ebola outbreak in Democratic Republic of Congo escalates with 550 confirmed cases and 101 fatalities

The Ebola virus outbreak, specifically the Bundibugyo strain, continues to intensify in the eastern regions of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). According to the latest epidemiological report from the National Institute of Public Health (INSP), the provinces of Ituri, North Kivu, and South Kivu have now recorded a total of 550 confirmed cases, including 101 deaths.

As of June 6, the data shows 27 new confirmed cases reported within 24 hours, highlighting ongoing transmission in multiple affected areas. Currently, 283 patients are hospitalized or in isolation, with authorities continuing to monitor the situation closely.

The overall case fatality rate stands at 17.7%, based on the confirmed cases, though officials note that some data is still being harmonized.

Ituri remains the epicenter

Geographical analysis of the outbreak confirms that Ituri Province remains the hardest-hit region. Of the 25 health zones affected across the DRC, 17 are located in Ituri—nearly half of the 36 health zones that make up the province.

The affected zones include Aru, Aungba, Bambu, Bunia, Damas, Gety, Kilo, Komanda, Lita, Logo, Mambasa, Mangala, Mongbwalu, Nizi, Nyankunde, Rimba, and Rwampara. This widespread distribution underscores the persistent circulation of the virus despite ongoing surveillance and awareness efforts by response teams.

Active clusters in North Kivu and South Kivu

Outside of Ituri, several health zones in North Kivu and South Kivu are also reporting cases. Katwa Health Zone stands out as the most active cluster, with 11 confirmed cases and 8 deaths. Other notable clusters include:

• Beni: 5 confirmed cases, 3 deaths
• Butembo: 4 confirmed cases, 2 deaths
• Miti-Murhesa: 3 confirmed cases, 1 death
• Oïcha: 2 confirmed cases, 2 deaths
• Kalunguta: 1 confirmed case, 1 death
• Kyondo: 1 confirmed case, 0 deaths
• Goma: 1 confirmed case, 0 deaths

Amidst the challenges, health teams have reported some progress. Three confirmed patients have recently recovered, with two discharged from care facilities in Bunia and one released in Katwa Health Zone.

The INSP emphasizes that response efforts are ongoing across all affected zones, with a focus on infection prevention in health facilities, contact tracing, and community sensitization. Authorities stress that building trust with communities, early case detection, and strict adherence to prevention measures are critical to breaking the chains of transmission in the coming weeks.