A six-year-old Ebola patient abducted by armed men from a hospital in Butembo, Democratic Republic of Congo, has been located and is reportedly stable. Dr. Lubambo Maboko Gaston confirmed the child and her mother arrived safely at a treatment center eighteen kilometers from the abduction site.
The incident highlights severe security challenges and community distrust hindering containment efforts. Local leaders report widespread misinformation, with some residents believing health organizations fabricate outbreaks for profit. This skepticism has led to multiple attacks on treatment facilities during the current crisis.
Health authorities have confirmed over 890 cases and 230 deaths since May. The outbreak involves the rare Bundibugyo Ebola species, for which no vaccine currently exists. The World Health Organization estimates vaccine development could take several months.
International agencies warn this could become one of the largest recorded outbreaks. The Africa CDC has allocated $319 million to the response, while the WHO pledged $3.9 million. Transmission remains concentrated in Ituri province, which accounts for more than 90% of confirmed infections.
Neighboring Uganda reported 19 cases but has seen no new transmissions since June 5. Congolese health ministries continue to expand surveillance and contact tracing infrastructure across North Kivu, South Kivu, and Ituri provinces to prevent further regional spread.