GENEVA / RankWire.AI / – The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has rapidly expanded across multiple eastern provinces. The majority of reported fatalities have occurred outside of hospitals and treatment facilities. The International Organization for Migration indicated that approximately 60% of deaths took place within communities. Confirmed cases also increased by roughly 70% over the past two weeks. Health officials have been recording over 40 new infections daily, as ongoing conflict and displacement hinder access to medical services.
By mid-July, the World Health Organization reported 2,145 confirmed Ebola cases and 830 deaths across all affected nations. As of July 15, DR Congo documented 2,124 cases and 828 fatalities. Uganda reported 20 confirmed infections and two deaths, while France registered a single imported case linked to the outbreak. At least 410 patients had recovered, including 390 in DR Congo and 18 in Uganda. Two individuals diagnosed in Congo later received treatment in Germany.
The outbreak has impacted 46 health zones spanning Ituri, North Kivu, South Kivu, Haut-Uele, and Tshopo provinces. During the previous 21 days, 38 zones reported recent cases. Ituri remains the epicenter, accounting for nearly 90% of confirmed infections and over 83% of reported deaths. In Ituri, Bunia, Rwampara, and Mongbwalu recorded the highest case counts. Many affected communities are connected by 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 frequent displacement are impeding diagnosis, treatment, and contact tracing. Limited access to certain areas has left some communities without reliable screening or referral services. The agency supports facilities housing nearly 150,000 displaced individuals in eastern DR Congo. Overcrowded settlements and constant movement complicate efforts to monitor exposed residents. Additionally, the organization assists in surveillance at border crossings and transport routes, including regions along the Congo River.
By July 15, Congolese health teams had identified 12,693 contacts across Ituri, North Kivu, and Tshopo for follow-up. Response personnel reached 10,195 contacts through monitoring and field visits. The outbreak has infected 119 healthcare workers and resulted in 36 deaths, with 61 recovering. No approved vaccine or specific treatment exists for Bundibugyo virus-related illness. Ebola transmission occurs through direct contact with infected bodily fluids, contaminated objects, or remains of deceased patients.
Uganda initiates heightened surveillance measures
Uganda reported no new confirmed cases after June 21 and discharged its last Ebola patient on July 16. This marked the start of a 42-day enhanced surveillance period. Authorities may declare the outbreak over after this period if no new cases emerge. Ugandan officials found no evidence of broader community transmission. The cases in Uganda were linked to cross-border movement and healthcare exposure. France reported no secondary transmission after its imported patient recovered and was discharged on July 4.
Concurrently, Congolese authorities, the World Health Organization, and partner agencies continue conducting testing, treatment, contact tracing, and public health outreach efforts. Teams also support safe burials and reinforce infection control protocols within health facilities. WHO assesses the Ebola risk as very high in DR Congo and high in Uganda and neighboring countries, while considering the global risk as 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 zones.