Health authorities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) have confirmed a fresh outbreak of Ebola virus disease in Kasai Province, with 28 suspected cases and 15 deaths, including four health workers.
A statement by the World Health Organisation (WHO) on Thursday revealed that the outbreak has struck Bulape and Mweka health zones, where investigations uncovered cases presenting with fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, and haemorrhage.
The outbreak coincides with multiple overlapping health crises in Central and West Africa, including cholera, malnutrition, and mass displacement.
The DRC’s last Ebola outbreak was in Equateur Province in April 2022 and was controlled within three months. Kasai last reported outbreaks in 2007 and 2008.
Samples tested on 3 September confirmed the Zaire strain of Ebola.
WHO said a national rapid response team, supported by its experts, is already in Kasai to strengthen surveillance, treatment, and infection control.
Two tonnes of supplies, including protective gear and mobile lab kits, are being delivered to the hard-to-reach area.
“We’re acting with determination to rapidly halt the spread of the virus and protect communities,” said WHO Africa Regional Director, Dr Mohamed Janabi.
“We’re working closely with the health authorities to scale up response measures to end the outbreak as soon as possible.”
WHO warned that more cases are likely to emerge as transmission is ongoing.
Vaccines and treatments, including 2,000 doses of the Ervebo Ebola vaccine, are being moved from Kinshasa to vaccinate contacts and frontline health workers.