RismadarVoice Reporters
August 31, 2026
The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has continued to worsen, with more than 6,000 confirmed cases recorded and the death toll approaching 3,000, according to new figures released by health authorities.
The outbreak, caused by the rare Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus, has been described as the fastest-spreading Ebola epidemic ever recorded, as health workers struggle to contain new infections across affected regions.
Data from the DRC Ministry of Communications showed that 6,041 cases have been confirmed, including 1,366 recoveries and 2,911 deaths. The ministry added that 619 patients are currently in isolation or receiving medical care.
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said the rapid spread of the virus has created major challenges for response teams, with infections occurring among people who are not always reached through contact-tracing efforts.
The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention said difficulties in identifying and monitoring contacts of infected persons have contributed to the continued transmission of the virus.
The outbreak has mainly affected eastern provinces of the DRC, where densely populated communities are facing additional challenges linked to armed conflict, displacement and existing humanitarian pressures.
Medical charity Doctors Without Borders said ongoing healthcare needs, airport closures and travel restrictions have affected the movement of medical personnel, diagnostic materials and essential supplies needed for the response.
The organisation also reported difficulties among frontline healthcare workers, some of whom went on strike in early August over unpaid wages and poor working conditions.
Health officials have continued efforts to limit further spread of the disease, while international agencies provide support to affected communities.
Meanwhile, neighbouring Uganda has been declared free of Ebola after recording no new cases for 42 consecutive days as of August 28, according to health authorities.
