Ebola Outbreak in DR Congo Claims Over 100 Lives Amid Growing Concerns

Mon Jun 01 2026 16:35:27 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

A recent Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo has resulted in at least 100 fatalities and over 390 suspected cases. The World Health Organization declared it an international emergency.

The Democratic Republic of Congo is facing a critical Ebola outbreak, with reported deaths exceeding 100 and more than 390 cases suspected. The situation has prompted warnings for the public to adhere strictly to health measures, especially during funerals, as the World Health Organization recognizes the outbreak as an international emergency. Additionally, there are emerging concerns around cases in Uganda, highlighting the potential for wider regional spread.

At least 100 deaths have been reported in an Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo, with more than 390 cases suspected, the head of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention has told the BBC.

Jean Kaseya warned that with no approved drugs or vaccines, people should follow public health measures, including at funerals of Ebola victims.

There are also two confirmed cases and one death in Uganda, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the current strain of Ebola, caused by the Bundibugyo virus, an international emergency. Kaseya emphasized that in the absence of vaccines and effective medicines, people must adhere to health measures, particularly concerning the handling of funerals.

The WHO has stated that the outbreak in DR Congo's eastern Ituri province is a public health emergency of international concern, but does not meet the criteria for a pandemic. The agency noted potential for a larger outbreak with significant regional spread. Monitoring efforts at borders and health facilities are being prioritized, with neighbouring countries urged to enhance their readiness.

As the situation evolves, both Congo and Uganda are experiencing increased measures to prevent the disease from spreading, and the CDC is preparing to support affected Americans and ensure the disease does not enter the United States.