Deadly Ebola Outbreak in DRC Claims 131 Lives, Health Officials Say

The death toll from the ongoing Ebola outbreak in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has risen to 131, as health authorities warn that the virus continues to spread across multiple provinces despite containment efforts.

The outbreak, which involves the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus, has also recorded hundreds of suspected and confirmed cases, raising renewed concerns over regional transmission into neighbouring countries.

Health officials say the outbreak is being worsened by insecurity in affected areas, making it difficult for medical teams to access communities, carry out contact tracing, and deliver treatment effectively.

The World Health Organization (WHO), working alongside the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), has intensified emergency response measures, including surveillance, isolation protocols, and deployment of rapid response teams.

Medical experts have raised concern that the Bundibugyo strain remains particularly challenging due to the lack of a widely approved targeted vaccine, unlike other Ebola strains such as Zaire.

Authorities in the DRC have urged residents to report symptoms early, avoid contact with infected individuals, and observe strict hygiene practices as part of efforts to curb further spread.

International partners are also supporting the response with medical supplies, protective equipment, and technical assistance as health agencies race to contain the outbreak before it escalates further.