Ebola outbreak in DRC becomes deadliest in country’s history

The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has become the deadliest in the country's history, killing 2,325 people according to government data. The outbreak, which began in May, has seen 4,945 confirmed cases, a record number. The deadly Bundibugyo species of Ebola, which has no approved vaccines or treatments, is responsible for the outbreak.

The case fatality ratio has risen from around 20% in early June to 46%, indicating that nearly half of all confirmed cases are now fatal. Weak health infrastructure, community resistance, and instability have hindered efforts to identify and respond to cases. Experts attribute the rising case fatality ratio to persistent shortcomings in surveillance, case detection, and access to care.

Experimental vaccines and therapies are being evaluated, but their effectiveness remains uncertain. The outbreak has previously spread to neighboring Uganda, where it was contained with only two deaths and 20 confirmed cases.