Ebola outbreak spreads across six provinces in DR Congo as community deaths surge

The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has spread to 61 health zones across six provinces, with Kayna Health Zone in North Kivu becoming the latest area to report cases.

The outbreak has recorded 6,686 cases and 3,226 deaths since it began in mid-May, according to the latest situation report from the World Health Organisation (WHO) Africa office. Cases have been reported in Ituri, North Kivu, Haut-Uele, South Kivu, Bas-Uele and Tshopo provinces.

Ituri remains the hardest-hit province, while North Kivu and Haut-Uele continue to record high levels of transmission. However, the situation varies across the affected areas, with infections declining in some health zones while continuing to rise in others. New areas are also reporting cases as the outbreak spreads.

WHO has expressed particular concern over the growing number of Ebola patients dying in their communities before reaching health facilities for treatment.

Between August 31 and September 6, 75 per cent of confirmed Ebola deaths occurred in communities, up from 56.6 per cent two weeks earlier.

According to WHO Africa, the increase could be linked to late diagnosis and delays in accessing treatment. Long distances, transport challenges, limited awareness of Ebola symptoms and mistrust of health workers could also be preventing some patients from reaching health facilities in time.

“This divergence is concerning, as the increase in community deaths alongside the continued decline in treatment facilities indicates that the earlier reduction in overall mortality has not been sustained,” the situation report said.

The latest figures come days after the Congolese government and health partners launched a $1.3 billion (Sh163.8 billion), 180-day plan to strengthen the Ebola response and prevent further spread of the virus.

The plan focuses on improving the detection of new cases, tracing people who may have been exposed, strengthening communication with communities and improving logistical support. Authorities are also preparing other provinces that could be at risk as the outbreak continues to spread.