Over 4,300 confirmed cases reported

The outbreak has resulted in 2,011 fatalities out of 4,381 confirmed cases, as reported by Congolese health officials. The mortality rate stands at 45.9%, underscoring the severity of the situation. Originating in Ituri Province, the virus has since spread to several other regions, including North Kivu, where ongoing conflicts and weak healthcare infrastructure have exacerbated the crisis. This outbreak now ranks among the most devastating in the country’s history, closely mirroring the tragic 2018-2020 epidemic that claimed nearly 2,300 lives.

Vaccine trials underway for current Ebola variant

Health experts have identified the Bundibugyo variant as the strain responsible for the current outbreak. While no vaccine has yet been approved for this specific variant, the World Health Organization has recommended expediting clinical trials for Ervebo—the only Ebola vaccine currently licensed. Given the extensive safety data available, authorities are considering a direct phase 3 trial, typically conducted on a larger scale. Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, is set to supply doses from the global Ervebo stockpile, which contains approximately 500,000 doses. The vaccine is manufactured by the American pharmaceutical company Merck.

Multiple vaccine candidates in development

In addition to Ervebo, several other potential vaccines are being explored to combat the Bundibugyo variant. Moderna, in collaboration with Canadian authorities, has received approval to initiate clinical trials for its candidate. Meanwhile, Hilleman Laboratories and the University of Oxford are also developing their own versions. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the United States has pledged an additional $242 million in aid to bolster Ebola response efforts in the Democratic Republic of Congo.