The Ebola virus disease outbreak, specifically the Bundibugyo strain, continues to spread across eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. The latest epidemiological report from the National Institute of Public Health (INSP) reveals that the Ituri, North Kivu, and South Kivu provinces now account for 550 confirmed cases, including 101 fatalities.

Figures recorded as of June 6 show 27 new confirmed cases within a 24-hour period, highlighting ongoing transmission in multiple affected zones. Currently, 283 patients remain hospitalized or in isolation facilities.

The overall case fatality rate stands at 17.7%, according to health authorities, who note that some data is still being consolidated.

Ituri remains the epicenter

The geographical analysis of the outbreak confirms Ituri province as the hardest-hit region. Of the 25 health zones affected, 17 are located in Ituri—a figure representing nearly half of the province’s 36 total health zones.

The most impacted areas include Aru, Aungba, Bambu, Bunia, Damas, Gety, Kilo, Komanda, Lita, Logo, Mambasa, Mangala, Mongbwalu, Nizi, Nyankunde, Rimba, and Rwampara.

This widespread geographical distribution underscores the persistent circulation of the virus across several territories despite ongoing surveillance and awareness campaigns led by response teams.

Active hotspots in North Kivu and South Kivu

Outside Ituri, several health zones in North Kivu and South Kivu are also recording cases. The Katwa health zone emerges as the primary active hotspot 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), Oïcha (2 confirmed cases and 2 deaths), Kalunguta (1 confirmed case and 1 death), Kyondo (1 confirmed case with no deaths), and Goma (1 confirmed case with no deaths).

Despite the outbreak’s progression, health teams report some positive developments. Three confirmed patients have recently recovered. Two were discharged from care facilities in Bunia, while another was allowed to return home in the Katwa health zone.

The INSP states that interventions are continuing across all affected zones, with particular emphasis on infection prevention in healthcare settings, contact tracing, and community sensitization.

Health authorities emphasize that rebuilding public trust, early case detection, and adherence to prevention measures remain critical to halting transmission chains in the coming weeks.

Freddy UPAR, reporting from Bunia