Ebola kills 1,700 in eastern Congo as the fastest-growing outbreak surges
Summary
Ebola has killed over 1,700 people in eastern Congo during the fastest-growing outbreak of the disease. The outbreak started in May 2026, mainly affects Ituri province, and is spreading mainly through community transmission rather than identified contacts.Key Facts
- More than 3,800 Ebola cases and 1,700 deaths have been reported in eastern Congo.
- The outbreak is linked to the Bundibugyo virus, which has no approved vaccines or treatments yet.
- Nearly 80% of new cases come from community spread, not known contacts.
- The outbreak is concentrated in Ituri province but has spread to five other provinces, including some large cities.
- Armed conflict, illegal mining, and community mistrust make contact tracing and response difficult.
- Over 100 healthcare workers have been infected, with strikes occurring due to unpaid wages and unsafe conditions.
- The World Health Organization and Africa CDC are actively monitoring the situation and working on clinical trials of drugs and vaccines.
- Uganda has declared itself free of Ebola after curing its last patient in June 2026.
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