An Ebola outbreak is under way in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, with cases and deaths reported across health zones in Ituri, North Kivu and South Kivu provinces.
The outbreak is caused by the Bundibugyo virus, a strain for which no approved vaccine or treatment exists. The DRC Ministry of Health has characterised the situation as rapidly evolving.
Government and WHO response
Health Minister Dr Samuel Roger Kamba and WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus led a joint mission to Bunia, accompanied by the DRC communications minister. The visit was intended to assess the outbreak and coordinate response efforts.
Authorities are expanding disease monitoring, laboratory diagnostics and treatment capacity to halt onward spread. WHO and partner organisations are supporting coordination work and resource mobilisation for critical interventions.
Vaccine trials and treatment gaps
Clinical trials for experimental vaccines and therapeutics are being fast-tracked through randomised control studies.
The DRC has successfully contained multiple previous Ebola outbreaks.
Community engagement and operational challenges
Response teams are working with community leaders, women's groups, youth representatives, religious figures and private sector actors to support public health measures.
Key operational challenges include identifying and isolating cases early, tracing contacts, conducting safe burials, maintaining infection control in health facilities, and raising community awareness of transmission risks.
Cross-border considerations
Authorities have called for borders to remain open and for entry screening measures not to block the movement of medical supplies and health personnel needed for the response.