The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is battling a fresh Ebola outbreak, with health authorities confirming 11 new infections in the Bulape Health Zone of Kasai Province.
As of September 21, 2025, the total caseload has risen to 57, including 47 confirmed and 10 probable cases. Thirty-five people have died—25 confirmed and 10 probable—representing a fatality rate of 61.4%. Among the confirmed infections are five health workers.
The outbreak remains concentrated in six areas: Bambalaie, Bulape, Bulape Communautaire, Dikolo, Ingongo, and Mpianga. Victims range from infants to the elderly, with children aged 0–9 particularly affected, accounting for 23% of cases. Women represent 61% of infections, though the fatality rate is higher among men (73%) than women (56%).
The Africa CDC had earlier reported 16 deaths and 68 suspected cases since the outbreak was first declared this month.
In response, 400 doses of the Ervebo vaccine have been deployed, with 45,000 more approved for release by the International Coordinating Group on Vaccine Provision. An additional 2,000 doses are already in-country, though vaccination efforts are hindered by limited access and funding.
This marks the DRC’s 16th Ebola outbreak since the virus was first identified in 1976, linked once again to the Zaire strain. The crisis compounds pressures on a fragile health system already weakened by persistent conflict, especially in the country’s east.
