‘Every health facility said they were full’: alarm over rapid spread of Ebola in DRC
Summary
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is facing a rapidly spreading Ebola outbreak that is overwhelming its healthcare system. Aid groups warn that more international help is urgently needed to control the disease, which spreads through body fluids and has a high death rate. Conflict, local funeral customs, and damaged health facilities are making the situation worse.Key Facts
- The DRC reported its 17th Ebola outbreak starting in April 2025 in the northwestern city of Bunia.
- Nearly 750 suspected cases and 177 suspected deaths have been recorded so far.
- Ebola spreads through contact with body fluids and contaminated materials, causing serious organ damage and bleeding.
- Hospitals in the affected area are full and cannot isolate new suspected Ebola patients.
- Traditional funeral practices that involve touching the body are helping the virus spread.
- Conflict in the region has damaged more than half of health facilities, and many healthcare workers have left due to insecurity.
- A militant attack recently killed 17 people near the outbreak zone, further complicating aid efforts.
- A treatment center was set on fire after authorities refused to release an Ebola victim’s body for traditional burial.
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