Ebola outbreak in eastern DRC kills 967, prompts WHO response and UK evacuation

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is experiencing its fastest‑growing Ebola outbreak. As of 19 July 2026, health authorities have recorded 2,423 confirmed cases, 967 deaths and 469 recoveries. The Bundibugyo strain remains dominant, with Ituri province accounting for more than 90 % of cases and 80 % of deaths. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a Public Health Emergency of International Importance and is scaling up safe burial, referral and clinical support, while also reinforcing control measures along the Congo River.

In Ituri, nine patients have recently been discharged from the Bunia treatment centre, bringing the total number of survivors supported by the centre to 85. Community leaders report misinformation and mistrust of treatment centres, hindering case reporting. Meanwhile, a British humanitarian worker who was exposed while assisting the response was evacuated on a chartered flight to London and is being monitored in isolation; officials say the risk to the public remains low.

International partners, including UNICEF, Africa CDC and Médecins Sans Frontières, continue to support the response amid ongoing insecurity and population displacement.