DR Congo Ebola Outbreak Continues, WHO Declares Public Health Emergency

On May 15, the Democratic Republic of the Congo declared an Ebola virus disease outbreak caused by the Bundibugyo strain. As of September 8, 6,843 confirmed cases and 3,310 deaths have been reported, with the epidemic centered in Ituri province and spreading to Bas‑Uélé, Haut‑Uélé, North Kivu, South Kivu and Tshopo. Uganda has declared its outbreak over after its last case was released from treatment on July 16, recording 20 cases and two deaths. The World Health Organization has classified the situation as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. International Medical Corps is supporting more than 100 facilities in the DRC, conducting 626,380 screenings and treating 1,911 patients, including 521 confirmed cases, while training 2,930 staff on case management. In Uganda, the organization trained 369 people, screened 2,665 at points of entry and 1,022 at bus stations, monitored 1,399 contacts, and distributed 11,398 educational materials. The organization also continues to support preparedness and surveillance efforts in South Sudan, engaging with national and county health authorities to strengthen coordination and technical capacity.