Figures published Oct. 29, covering data through Oct. 28, showed 10,274 confirmed Ebola cases and 4,992 deaths in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where the virus was still spreading in communities.
The outbreak is caused by Bundibugyo virus and was declared in May. It has reached eight provinces. It is the largest Ebola outbreak recorded in the country and the second-largest globally, after West Africa’s 2014–16 epidemic.
Nearly half of confirmed patients have died. More than 2,600 people had recovered by the latest reports. Armed conflict, poor roads and mistrust make it harder to stop the virus from spreading.
These problems can hinder response teams and discourage people from seeking care. WHO has called for control measures to continue, better access to affected areas and community outreach to build trust. WHO also reported that testing and treatment capacity has expanded.
Vaccine trials are underway. There is no approved vaccine or specific treatment for Bundibugyo virus. Kenya and Nigeria reported cases in October.
Uganda’s outbreak has ended. Several patients have also been taken to Europe for medical care.