The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has spread to an eighth province, intensifying concerns over the virus’s expanding reach and the challenges facing efforts to contain it.
The country’s National Institute for Biomedical Research has confirmed two cases, including one death, in North Ubangi province, which borders the Central African Republic.
The affected individuals are reportedly men in their twenties from the Wapinda health zone, near Bas-Uele province, where infections have previously been recorded.
The latest development brings the number of affected provinces to eight: Ituri, North Kivu, South Kivu, Haut-Uele, Tshopo, Bas-Uele, South Ubangi and North Ubangi.
According to figures released by Congolese authorities, the outbreak had recorded 9,415 cases and 4,536 deaths as of October 16.
Ituri province remains the epicentre, accounting for a significant proportion of newly confirmed infections.
Health officials say containing the outbreak has been complicated by population movement, armed conflict, limited access to healthcare and mistrust among some communities, all of which can hamper surveillance, contact tracing and timely treatment.
The outbreak is caused by the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus. Patients require prompt medical attention and supportive care to manage symptoms and complications.
Beyond the DRC, infections have also been reported in neighbouring countries, including Kenya, heightening concerns about cross-border transmission. Uganda, meanwhile, has declared itself free of the disease.
Authorities continue to strengthen disease surveillance, trace contacts and urge anyone with suspected symptoms to seek medical attention promptly as they work to curb further transmission.
