Congo-Kinshasa: Ebola Deaths Top 2,000 As Scientists Race to Develop Vaccine

The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has claimed more than 2,000 lives, with half of those deaths occurring in the past 20 days. This current outbreak is caused by the Bundibugyo species of the Ebola virus and was first declared by DRC health officials on May 15. It was later deemed a public health emergency of international concern by the World Health Organization (WHO) just two days later.

With over 4,000 confirmed cases, this outbreak ranks as both the second-largest and the fastest-growing on record to date. The 2014-2016 West African Ebola outbreak, which saw over 11,000 deaths, was larger in comparison. Only three months into the current emergency, the death toll is already close to that of the 2018-2020 epidemic, which saw fewer overall cases.

In response to the rapid spread of the virus, local health officials have raised concerns about potential mutation of the virus. Efforts are underway to develop vaccines and treatments, though none are currently approved. The outbreak is particularly challenging to control in eastern DRC due to ongoing violence by non-State armed groups and a lack of accessible healthcare for vulnerable populations.

Attacks on Ebola treatment facilities and deep community mistrust of outside authorities have further hindered the response. The UN and its partners are working to support the DRC response, but insecurity is impeding their efforts. The UN is also collaborating with Rwanda to prepare for the potential spread of Ebola across the border.