KINSHASA, DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO / RankWire.AI / – Since the outbreak started in May, the Democratic Republic of the Congo has documented 2,267 confirmed Ebola infections and 893 fatalities. The most recent government data, covering reports up to Friday, July 17, shows an addition of 86 confirmed cases and 29 deaths over the past 24 hours. These figures result in an approximate case fatality rate of 39%.
The Ministry of Public Health, Hygiene and Social Welfare announced the outbreak on May 15. Laboratory analyses identified the Bundibugyo virus in samples associated with severe illnesses in Ituri Province. This declaration marked the 17th Ebola outbreak in the country since scientists first identified the virus in 1976. Two days later, the World Health Organization designated it as a public health emergency of international concern.
By July 15, health officials confirmed cases in 46 health zones across five provinces, including Ituri, North Kivu, South Kivu, Haut-Uele, and Tshopo. Authorities listed 38 zones as active due to recent cases. Ituri accounted for nearly 90% of confirmed infections, with Bunia, Rwampara, Mongbwalu, Nizi, and Nyankunde being among the most affected locations.
Enhanced testing efforts reveal more about the outbreak
As the outbreak expanded through northeastern DRC, authorities ramped up surveillance, laboratory testing, and sample analysis. This increased capacity included evaluating older samples collected prior to laboratory confirmation of cases. In mid-July, over 80% of newly identified cases were outside existing contact lists. Approximately two-thirds of the recorded deaths happened in communities, where patients did not reach treatment centers before succumbing.
Response teams maintained contact tracing, clinical management, infection prevention, and health education activities in affected areas. By July 15, they had identified 12,693 contacts across Ituri, North Kivu, and Tshopo, with 10,195 being actively followed during the reporting period. Ongoing insecurity, population movement, and strained local health services continue to hinder efforts in parts of eastern DRC.
Regional outbreak driven by Bundibugyo virus
Bundibugyo virus transmits through direct contact with infected blood, bodily fluids, or contaminated objects. Typical symptoms include fever, weakness, muscle pain, headache, vomiting, and diarrhea. Some patients also experience internal or external bleeding during severe illness. Currently, there is no licensed vaccine or specific treatment for this strain, but early supportive care can enhance survival chances and assist medical teams in managing symptoms.
By mid-July, Uganda had reported 20 confirmed cases and two deaths. Officials traced 15 infections to imported cases and five to contacts or healthcare workers. Uganda discharged its last Ebola patient on July 16 and has initiated a 42-day enhanced surveillance period. Meanwhile, the DRC remains the epicenter of the outbreak, with 2,267 confirmed infections and 893 deaths according to the government tally through July 17.