Ebola outbreak in DR Congo spreads to sixth province as death toll passes 2,100

The Ebola outbreak in eastern Congo has worsened, with the number of infected individuals surpassing 4,500 and the death toll reaching 2,100, according to the latest government data. The World Health Organization (WHO) warns that this could be the deadliest Ebola epidemic in history, surpassing the 2014-16 West African outbreak that claimed over 11,000 lives.

The outbreak has now spread to six provinces, including Bas-Uele, which had not previously recorded cases. A man died in Buta, the capital of Bas-Uele, after traveling from Isiro in Haut-Uele. Health authorities are struggling to contain the virus due to several challenges. Approximately 60% to 70% of new cases are being detected outside of the monitoring system, making it difficult to trace transmission chains and isolate exposed individuals.

Additionally, healthcare workers in Ituri province have gone on strike due to unpaid salaries, temporarily closing the Nizi Treatment Center. Furthermore, the outbreak is occurring amidst threats from rebel groups, public anger, and misinformation, including claims that Ebola does not exist. The virus causing the outbreak is the Bundibugyo virus, for which there are no approved vaccines or treatments.

Clinical trials for potential treatments began last month, but the rapid spread of the virus poses a significant challenge to health authorities. Dr. Mohamed Yakub Janabi, WHO regional director for Africa, emphasized the urgent need to catch up with the virus, as it is currently moving faster than the response.