By Kennedy Nalyanya
Kinshasa, DRC - The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has officially declared a new Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak, the country's 16th since 1976. The declaration follows the confirmed presence of the highly contagious virus in the Kasai province.
Health authorities reported that the outbreak is centred in the Bulape and Mweka health zones, with a provisional case fatality rate of over 50%. As of the declaration on September 4, 2025, there have been 28 suspected cases and 15 reported deaths, including four healthcare workers.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has rapidly deployed a team of experts to the affected areas. The team includes specialists in epidemiology, infection prevention, and case management, aiming to assist local authorities with surveillance and control measures. In addition to personnel, the WHO is providing two tons of essential supplies, including personal protective equipment (PPE) and mobile laboratory equipment to aid in diagnosis and treatment.
This swift response is crucial, as Ebola spreads through direct contact with the blood, secretions, organs, or other bodily fluids of infected people. Community engagement and safe burial practices are also key to containing the virus.
Understanding the Threat
Ebola virus disease (EVD) is a rare but severe, often fatal illness in humans. Initial symptoms can be non-specific, resembling other common diseases like malaria, which can make early diagnosis difficult. Symptoms include fever, fatigue, muscle pain, headache, and sore throat, followed by vomiting, diarrhea, rash, and in some cases, both internal and external bleeding.
While the provisional case fatality rate in this outbreak is reported to be over 50%, the average fatality rate for EVD is around 50%, but it can vary significantly from 25% to 90% depending on the specific outbreak. The natural host of the virus is believed to be fruit bats, and it can be transmitted to humans through contact with infected animals.
The DRC has faced numerous Ebola outbreaks over the past decades, but its healthcare system has developed significant expertise in managing them. The country's experience and the rapid support from international partners like the WHO are critical for ending this latest outbreak as quickly as possible.
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