Ebola Outbreak Worsens
The Democratic Republic of the Congo is struggling to contain a worsening Ebola outbreak that has killed more than 1,000 people and infected 2,536, as conflict, mass displacement and limited healthcare continue to fuel the spread of the Bundibugyo strain.
Footage filmed on Thursday shows medical teams in protective gear transferring an Ebola patient at Rwampara Referral Hospital in Bunia before the patient is taken away by ambulance.
Health workers said insecurity is forcing medical teams to suspend operations and making it harder to reach patients and trace contacts.
Healthcare Faces Challenges
“Humanitarian and healthcare workers are sometimes forced to suspend their activities and leave affected areas,” said Dr Eddy Kambale Kahandukya, Deputy Medical Coordinator for MSF in the DRC.
“People are fleeing areas affected by attacks and insecurity to safer locations, and unfortunately, they are carrying the virus with them,” he added, noting that containment depends on early detection, contact tracing, isolation and community support.
Local activists pointed to shortcomings in the coordination of the response, saying they had allowed the outbreak to spread beyond Ituri Province.
“Ituri Province was the only area affected and remains the epicenter of the outbreak. But because of what we consider chaotic management, the Ebola outbreak has spread from Ituri to other provinces,” said Fideles Kazadi, a member of a citizens’ movement in Bunia.
Cases Continue Rising
Health officials say insecurity, mistrust and limited access are hindering the response in the DRC. The May 2026 outbreak in the DRC and Uganda involves the Bundibugyo strain, with no approved vaccine or specific treatment. Uganda has reported no new cases since June.
As of July 23, the Ministry of Health had reported 2,536 cases and 1,033 deaths.
Article by Viory
Related Post:
Cambodian authorities burn millions in seized narcotics after 5.6-tonne drug bust
Share this content:
