The Ebola virus disease outbreak, caused by the Bundibugyo strain, continues to spread in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. The latest situation report from the National Institute of Public Health (INSP), released on Sunday 7 June, indicates 515 confirmed cases have been recorded since the outbreak began across Ituri, North Kivu and South Kivu provinces.

The same report confirms 91 deaths among the confirmed cases, resulting in an overall case fatality rate of 17.7 percent.

Health authorities state that 283 patients are currently in isolation or hospitalised, while 12 people have been declared recovered since the start of the epidemic.

In the past twenty-four hours, 27 additional confirmed cases have been recorded.

Twenty-five health zones affected

Official figures show the epidemic now affects 25 health zones out of the country’s 104.

Ituri remains the hardest-hit province, with 17 of its 36 health zones impacted, including Aru, Aungba, Bambu, Bunia, Damas, Gety, Kilo, Komanda, Lita, Logo, Mambasa, Mangala, Mongbwalu, Nizi, Nyankunde, Rimba and Rwampara.

North Kivu and South Kivu also have several active outbreak foci, highlighting the geographic spread beyond the initial epicentre.

Deaths also recorded in North Kivu and South Kivu

In neighbouring provinces, the Katwa health zone remains the primary active hot spot, with 11 confirmed cases and 8 deaths.

It is followed by:

– Beni: 5 confirmed cases and 3 deaths;

– Butembo: 4 confirmed cases and 2 deaths;

– Miti-Murhesa: 3 confirmed cases and 1 death;

– Oicha: 2 confirmed cases and 2 deaths;

– Kalunguta: 1 confirmed case and 1 death;

– Kyondo: 1 confirmed case and no deaths;

– Goma: 1 confirmed case and no deaths.

Response efforts face multiple hurdles

These figures come amid significant challenges for response teams, including persistent insecurity in parts of Ituri, logistical difficulties reaching affected communities, and the need to strengthen awareness campaigns to counter rumours and misinformation.

Health authorities continue urging the population to promptly report any suspected cases and to follow prevention measures in order to limit the virus’s spread.