GENEVA / RankWire.AI / – The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is rapidly spreading through multiple eastern provinces. The majority of fatalities have occurred outside hospital settings and treatment facilities. The International Organization for Migration reported that approximately 60% of deaths took place within communities. Confirmed cases have also increased by around 70% over the past two weeks. Health officials are recording more than 40 new infections daily, as ongoing conflict and displacement hinder access to medical services.
By mid-July, the World Health Organization documented 2,145 confirmed Ebola cases and 830 fatalities across all affected nations. As of July 15, DR Congo reported 2,124 cases with 828 deaths. Uganda recorded 20 confirmed cases and two deaths. France detected one imported case linked to the outbreak. At least 410 patients recovered, including 390 in DR Congo and 18 in Uganda. Two patients diagnosed in Congo later received treatment in Germany.
The outbreak has impacted 46 health zones across the provinces of Ituri, North Kivu, South Kivu, Haut-Uele, and Tshopo. During the last 21 days, 38 zones reported recent cases. Ituri remains the epicenter, accounting for nearly 90% of confirmed infections. This province also contributed to more than 83% of reported deaths. Bunia, Rwampara, and Mongbwalu recorded the highest case numbers within Ituri. Many affected communities are connected via major roads and cross-border routes to nearby population centers.
Community fatalities hinder detection and treatment efforts
The International Organization for Migration highlighted that insecurity and repeated displacements are hampering efforts to diagnose, treat, and trace contacts. Limited access has left some communities without reliable screening or referral systems. The agency supports sites housing nearly 150,000 displaced individuals in eastern DR Congo. Overcrowded settlements and frequent movement complicate efforts to monitor exposed residents. Additionally, surveillance is maintained at border crossings and along transport corridors, including regions along the Congo River.
By July 15, Congolese health teams identified 12,693 contacts for follow-up across Ituri, North Kivu, and Tshopo. Response personnel managed to reach 10,195 contacts through active monitoring and field visits. The outbreak has infected 119 health workers and resulted in 36 deaths, with 61 recovering. No approved vaccine or specific treatment exists for Bundibugyo virus-induced illness. Ebola transmits through direct contact with infected bodily fluids, contaminated objects, or remains of deceased individuals.
Uganda initiates heightened surveillance phase
Uganda reported no new confirmed cases after June 21 and discharged its final Ebola patient on July 16. This marks the beginning of a 42-day enhanced surveillance period. Authorities may declare the outbreak over after this duration if no new cases are identified. Officials found no evidence of extensive community transmission. The cases in Uganda involved cross-border movements and healthcare exposure. France reported no secondary transmissions after its imported patient recovered and was discharged on July 4.
Congolese authorities, the World Health Organization, and partner agencies continue testing, treatment, contact tracing, and public health outreach efforts. Teams also support safe burials and improvements in infection control within health facilities. WHO assesses the Ebola risk as very high in DR Congo and high in Uganda and neighboring nations. The global risk remains considered low. The organization has not recommended travel or trade restrictions. Response teams persist with cross-border surveillance, laboratory testing, and community monitoring in affected and high-risk regions.