Ebola outbreak in eastern DRC kills over 1,700, fastest-growing ever

Published Aug 8, 05:42 PM UTC

The Ebola outbreak in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has killed over 1,700 people, with 3,802 cases recorded as of early August 2026, making it the fastest-growing outbreak ever. Declared on May 15, the outbreak is linked to the Bundibugyo virus, for which no approved vaccines or treatments exist. Nearly 90% of cases are concentrated in Ituri province, with cases confirmed in five other provinces including Kisangani. Africa CDC Director-General Dr. Jean Kaseya warned that 80% of new cases stem from community spread rather than contact tracing. The response is hampered by delays in contact tracing, difficult access, community mistrust, armed group violence, a funding gap, and healthcare worker strikes over unpaid wages and dangerous conditions. Over 100 healthcare workers have been infected. A study of two possible Ebola treatments recently began enrollment in Ituri. Neighboring Uganda declared itself Ebola-free in mid-June.