Ebola outbreak DR Congo worsens as WHO confirms over 900 suspected cases and warns of rising infections in conflict-hit provinces

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised concern over a sharp rise in suspected Ebola infections in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where more than 900 cases have now been identified amid an ongoing outbreak in conflict-affected regions.

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WHO Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, disclosed the figures in a post on social media, stating that surveillance efforts had intensified as health authorities attempt to contain the spread of the virus.

According to him, at least 101 cases have been laboratory-confirmed so far, although he did not provide an updated death toll for the outbreak.

The Ebola outbreak DR Congo situation has worsened since the country declared a new outbreak on May 15, linked to the Bundibugyo strain of the virus, which currently has no approved vaccine or specific treatment.

Health officials in the country previously reported 867 suspected cases and 204 deaths across three provinces, underscoring the severity of the spread in a vast and fragile health environment.

Ebola is a highly infectious and often fatal disease transmitted through direct contact with infected bodily fluids. Symptoms typically include fever, weakness, headache, and muscle pain, with severe cases leading to internal bleeding and organ failure.

Public health experts stress that the virus does not spread through the air, but remains highly contagious through physical contact with infected persons or contaminated materials.

The Ebola outbreak DR Congo crisis has revived regional fears, particularly as neighbouring countries, including Nigeria, continue to strengthen surveillance systems following previous outbreaks.

Nigeria previously contained an Ebola outbreak in 2014 after an infected Liberian-American diplomat, Patrick Sawyer, introduced the virus into Lagos, resulting in 20 confirmed cases and eight deaths before successful containment.

Health authorities across Africa have since remained on alert due to recurring outbreaks of viral haemorrhagic fevers such as Ebola, Lassa fever, and monkeypox, particularly in regions with porous borders and limited healthcare capacity.

Experts warn that ongoing conflict in parts of Central Africa continues to complicate response efforts, as displacement and limited access to healthcare facilities hinder effective containment.

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The WHO has urged continued vigilance, improved surveillance, and stronger cross-border coordination to prevent further escalation of the outbreak.