WHO Reports Congo Ebola Outbreak Spreads to Two New Health Zones

The World Health Organization confirmed Friday that the Ebola outbreak caused by the Bundibugyo virus in the Democratic Republic of Congo has expanded into two additional health zones, bringing the total number of affected areas to 63 across seven provinces. The newly affected zones, Bulu in Sud Ubangi province and Dungu in Haut-Uele province bordering South Sudan, mark the latest expansion of an outbreak that has already claimed thousands of lives.

Conflict Hampers Response Efforts

As of September 23, Congo has reported 7,890 confirmed cases and 3,799 deaths. WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said ongoing conflict and population displacement continue complicating efforts to reach affected communities and trace potential exposures, noting that restricted access leaves some contacts untraced while displacement increases transmission risks in crowded areas.

Vaccine Shortage Complicates Treatment Efforts

Despite these challenges, Tedros noted that overall case numbers are declining, with improvements in contact tracing, safe burial practices and community engagement, though transmission remains uneven across different regions. He acknowledged the lack of approved vaccines and treatments for this particular strain continues complicating response efforts and may discourage people from seeking care, adding that the WHO is working to accelerate clinical trials for potential treatments.