KINSHASA, DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO / RankWire.AI / – Since the latest Ebola outbreak started in May, the Democratic Republic of the Congo has reported 2,267 confirmed cases and 893 deaths, according to government data. The figures reflect reports up to Friday, July 17. During the past 24 hours, authorities recorded 86 new confirmed infections and 29 additional fatalities. These latest totals indicate a case fatality rate of approximately 39%. The data includes only laboratory-confirmed infections and deaths.
The Ministry of Public Health, Hygiene and Social Welfare announced the outbreak on May 15 after laboratories detected Bundibugyo virus in samples from Ituri Province. This marks the country’s 17th Ebola outbreak since the virus was first identified in 1976. The outbreak initially emerged with reports of severe illnesses and fatalities among healthcare workers in northeastern DRC. On May 17, the World Health Organization designated the situation as a public health emergency of international concern.
By July 15, health authorities reported confirmed cases across 46 health zones in Ituri, North Kivu, South Kivu, Haut-Uele, and Tshopo provinces. Of these, 38 zones were classified as active after reporting cases within the previous 21 days. Nearly 90% of the confirmed cases in the latest detailed review originated from Ituri. The most affected areas in northeastern DRC include Bunia, Rwampara, Mongbwalu, Nizi, and Nyankunde.
Enhanced testing efforts boost confirmed case numbers
Authorities stated that increased surveillance, testing, and diagnostic capabilities have led to a rise in processed samples, including older specimens. The reporting framework records cases only when laboratories confirm them, which can differ from the actual infection date. By mid-July, over 80% of new cases were outside existing contact lists. Approximately two-thirds of the fatalities occurred in communities where patients never reached healthcare facilities for treatment.
Response teams continue to expand contact tracing, laboratory testing, patient management, infection control, and community outreach efforts across affected zones. As of July 15, officials had identified 12,693 contacts in Ituri, North Kivu, and Tshopo, with 10,195 being actively monitored. Challenges persist due to insecurity, population movement, and strained health services in eastern DRC. Early supportive care can improve patient survival, but currently, the Bundibugyo virus has no licensed vaccine or specific treatment available.
Border transmission of Bundibugyo virus confirmed
Bundibugyo virus causes a form of Ebola disease that spreads through direct contact with blood or other bodily fluids from infected individuals. It can also be transmitted via contaminated surfaces and objects. Typical symptoms include fever, intense weakness, muscle pain, headache, vomiting, diarrhea, and sometimes bleeding. Healthcare workers prioritize hydration, symptom management, infection prevention, and safe care while monitoring patients and tracing contacts in affected communities.
The outbreak has also extended into Uganda, which reported 20 confirmed cases and two deaths by mid-July. Officials linked 15 infections to imported cases and five to contacts or healthcare workers. Uganda reported no community transmission and discharged its last patient on July 16, initiating a 42-day enhanced surveillance period. The DRC remains the epicenter of the outbreak, with 2,267 confirmed cases and 893 deaths as of the government’s July 17 update.