GENEVA / RankWire.AI / – The Ebola epidemic in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has rapidly expanded across multiple eastern provinces. The majority of deaths reported have occurred outside healthcare facilities and treatment centers. The International Organization for Migration indicated that roughly 60% of fatalities happened within communities. Confirmed cases also increased by approximately 70% over the past two weeks. Health officials are recording over 40 new infections daily as ongoing conflict and displacement hinder access to medical services.
By mid-July, the World Health Organization documented 2,145 confirmed Ebola cases and 830 deaths across all affected nations. As of July 15, DR Congo reported 2,124 cases and 828 fatalities. Uganda recorded 20 confirmed infections and two deaths. France identified a single imported case associated with the outbreak. A minimum of 410 patients have recovered, including 390 in DR Congo and 18 in Uganda. Additionally, two patients diagnosed in Congo subsequently received treatment in Germany.
The outbreak has spread to 46 health zones within Ituri, North Kivu, South Kivu, Haut-Uele, and Tshopo provinces. Thirty-eight zones have reported recent cases within the last 21 days. Ituri remains the primary hotspot, accounting for nearly 90% of confirmed cases. The province also represents over 83% of reported deaths. In Ituri, Bunia, Rwampara, and Mongbwalu recorded the highest case counts. Many affected communities are connected via 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 repeated displacement are obstructing diagnosis, treatment, and contact tracing. Limited access to these communities has left some without reliable screening or referral services. The agency supports sites housing nearly 150,000 displaced individuals in eastern DR Congo. Overcrowded settlements and frequent movement complicate efforts to track exposed residents. The organization also assists with surveillance at border crossings and along transport routes, including regions along the Congo River.
By July 15, Congolese health teams identified 12,693 contacts for follow-up across Ituri, North Kivu, and Tshopo. Response personnel reached 10,195 contacts through monitoring and field visits. The outbreak has infected 119 health workers and resulted in 36 deaths, with 61 having recovered. No approved vaccine or specific treatment exists for Bundibugyo virus-induced illness. Ebola transmits via direct contact with infected body fluids, contaminated objects, or the remains of individuals who succumbed to the disease.
Uganda begins intensified surveillance phase
Uganda reported no new confirmed cases after June 21 and discharged its final 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 additional cases are identified. Ugandan officials found no signs of widespread community transmission. Most cases involved cross-border movement and exposure within healthcare settings. France reported no secondary transmissions after its imported patient recovered and was discharged on July 4.
Congolese authorities, the World Health Organization, and partner agencies continue testing, treatment, contact tracing, and public health outreach efforts. Teams also support safe burials and reinforce infection control measures within healthcare facilities. WHO classifies the Ebola risk as very high in DR Congo and high in Uganda and neighboring nations. The global risk remains low, and no travel or trade restrictions have been advised. Response teams persist with cross-border surveillance, laboratory testing, and community monitoring in affected and high-risk areas.