The World Health Organization reports a historic Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo continues to expand, despite signs of stabilization in some areas.
As of July 19, the DRC has recorded 2,423 confirmed cases, including 967 deaths. The Bundibugyo virus variant, for which no approved vaccine or treatment exists, is responsible for this fastest-growing outbreak on record.
Dr. Thierno Baldé, the WHO Incident Manager, stated the outbreak's epicenter is Ituri province, accounting for over 90% of cases. The virus is spreading in the eastern region, where chronic instability and mobile populations create ideal conditions for transmission.
"The outbreak remains ahead of us and we are still in the phase of catching up," Dr. Baldé said from Bunia. He highlighted prioritizing safe burials and clinical care in active transmission areas.
Despite severe insecurity hampering response efforts, the WHO is implementing targeted strategies. In Kisangani, rapid response teams have prevented secondary cases. The agency is also reinforcing control measures along the Congo River, a crucial transit route.
There are encouraging signs. Dr. Baldé noted stabilization trends in Mongbwalu, the outbreak's initial detection site, and in Goma.
The Bundibugyo virus has a historical fatality rate of around 40%.