Ebola outbreak in eastern DRC accelerates to record speed and death toll

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is facing its fastest‑growing Ebola outbreak ever recorded. As of early June, health officials report 3,360 confirmed cases and 1,487 deaths, a case‑fatality rate of about 45%, across five provinces in the east, notably Ituri, Bunia and Rwampara. The Bundibugyo strain is spreading faster than any of the country’s 16 previous outbreaks, with 100‑150 new infections reported each week.

The crisis is compounded by armed conflict, insecurity, mining activity and high population density, which hinder response efforts. The DRC’s National Public Health Institute, led by Prof. Pierre Akilimali, has expanded surveillance, built more than 20 treatment centres and established local testing labs, urging the public to seek medical care at the first sign of symptoms. Health‑worker infections are rising, with 119 confirmed cases and 36 deaths reported by the World Health Organization.

Residents describe growing fear and disruption to daily life. “Our hope lies solely in God’s hands,” said Annabelle Nissi, a trader in Bunia, while mother Deborah Nzuva expressed concern that life may come to a standstill in her province of Ituri.