A new Ebola virus outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has resulted in 35 confirmed deaths since the disease was detected just over two weeks ago, according to a World Health Organization (WHO) official.
The outbreak, which was first confirmed 17 days ago, has seen a rapid escalation. In an update provided on September 17th, Dr. Patrick Otim, Programme Area Manager for Emergency Response at the WHO African Region, reported that the total number of cases has reached 53. This figure includes 43 laboratory-confirmed cases and 10 probable cases—individuals who died before testing but were linked to the outbreak.
Of the confirmed cases, 25 patients have died. When combined with the 10 probable deaths, the fatality count rises to 35. Dr. Otim confirmed that the outbreak is currently contained within the Bulape health zone in Kasai province, affecting six specific health areas. The primary focus of the response is to prevent the virus from spreading beyond this zone.
The strain responsible for this outbreak has been identified as the Ebola Zaire species. Genetic sequencing shows it is a new zoonotic spillover, closely related to the very first Ebola virus identified in 1976, rather than a continuation of previous outbreaks in the region. This is the 16th Ebola outbreak recorded in the DRC.
A significant tool in combating the spread is the availability of a pre-qualified vaccine. Dr. Otim stated that the WHO is using the LVO vaccine, made by MAC, for ring vaccination campaigns. As of the briefing, 1,500 people, including contacts of confirmed cases, their contacts, and frontline health workers, have already been vaccinated. The WHO has 4,000 vaccine doses on the ground in Bap and is working to ramp up the vaccination effort.
A concerning demographic trend has emerged, with women accounting for 55% of the identified cases and a disproportionate 67% of the deaths. Dr. Otim explained that this is not unusual, as women often bear the role of caregivers within households, increasing their exposure when family members fall ill.
The official described the disease progression, which begins with a sudden high fever, severe weakness, muscle and joint pain, and a sore throat. This is often followed by “wet symptoms” such as diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, which can lead to severe dehydration and multiple organ failure. In advanced stages, some patients may experience bleeding from bodily orifices.
Dr. Otim emphasized that early detection and isolation are critical, not only for patient survival but also to prevent transmission within families. He also highlighted that approved therapeutics are available to manage severe cases and improve chances of recovery when administered early.
The WHO and its partners continue to monitor the situation closely as response efforts focus on containment, vaccination, and community education to curb the outbreak.
