DR Congo Ebola Death Toll Hits 600 as WHO Raises Alarm Over Rapid Spread

The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has claimed about 600 lives, according to the latest figures released by the World Health Organization (WHO), marking a sharp rise from just over 500 deaths recorded three days earlier.

Data published by the UN health agency on Thursday showed that the DRC has recorded 1,759 confirmed Ebola cases since the outbreak was declared in mid-May, with 600 confirmed fatalities, reflecting a case fatality rate of 34 per cent.

The WHO said 285 patients have recovered, while health authorities are currently investigating 304 suspected cases of the viral haemorrhagic disease.

The outbreak has spread across four provinces in northeastern DRC, with the epicentre remaining in Ituri Province, a mineral-rich region affected by persistent armed conflict.

In neighbouring Uganda, two Ebola-related deaths have also been confirmed. The country has reported 20 confirmed infections, with 17 patients successfully recovering.

Health experts said the current outbreak is caused by the rare Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus, for which there are currently no approved vaccines or specific treatments.

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In response, clinical trials evaluating two potential therapies commenced in the DRC on July 2. The study is assessing the effectiveness of the monoclonal antibody MBP134 and the antiviral drug remdesivir, administered individually and in combination.

Ebola is a highly infectious viral disease transmitted through direct contact with infected bodily fluids and close interaction with infected individuals.

The current outbreak, the DRC’s 17th recorded Ebola epidemic, was officially declared on May 15 following a series of unexplained deaths in Ituri Province. Health authorities and international partners continue efforts to contain the virus and prevent further cross-border transmission.