Ebola Outbreak Expands in Congo as 71 New Cases Confirmed
The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) continues to worsen, with health authorities confirming 71 new cases in a single day.
The latest figures bring the total number of confirmed infections to 452, including 82 deaths, since the outbreak of the rare Bundibugyo strain was declared in May. Most cases have been reported from the conflict-hit Ituri province, where weak healthcare infrastructure and security challenges have complicated response efforts.
Officials have warned of rapid community transmission as the virus spreads across multiple health zones in eastern Congo.
Cases have also been detected in neighbouring Uganda, raising concerns about cross-border transmission. In response, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention have launched a six-month emergency response plan worth $518 million to contain the outbreak and strengthen regional preparedness.
The current outbreak is caused by the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, for which no approved vaccine currently exists.
Health experts have stressed the need for stronger surveillance, community awareness, and international support to prevent further spread of the deadly disease.
