The Democratic Republic of Congo has reported a significant surge in Ebola cases, with over 2,300 new confirmed cases recorded between October 6-26, 2026, in several provinces in the east. According to the report by the Presidential Task Force published on October 29, the provinces of Ituri and North Kivu are among the most affected. The report highlights the ongoing spread of the Ebola virus in the region.
The Task Force report indicates that Ituri and North Kivu have concentrated the majority of the cases recorded during this period. Specifically, Ituri has reported approximately 2,265 cases, while North Kivu has reported around 894 cases. These numbers appear to represent a cumulative total rather than solely new cases registered between October 6-26. The report also notes that several health zones have been affected.
In Ituri, the health zones of Mandima, Bunia, Rwampara, Nizi, and Mambasa are among the most affected. Similarly, in North Kivu, the health zones of Beni, Katwa, Butembo, and Mabalako have also been impacted. The health zone of Wamba in Haut-Uele has also reported confirmed cases. The report suggests that the increase in cases in North Kivu, particularly in Beni, Mabalako, and Oïcha, may be partly attributed to imported cases from Mandima.
The authorities have emphasized the need to strengthen coordination between the affected provinces to combat the spread of the virus. Recommended measures include enhanced investigation of cases, follow-up with contact persons, and surveillance of population movements. The authorities are also calling for reinforced prevention measures and epidemiological surveillance.
The Presidential Task Force has stressed the importance of community participation in efforts to contain the transmission of the virus. The report notes that the situation requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders to mitigate the spread of Ebola. The DRC has been battling the Ebola outbreak for some time, with over 10,000 cases reported so far.
The affected provinces are taking steps to enhance their response to the outbreak. In Ituri, local authorities have launched awareness campaigns to educate the public about the risks of Ebola and the importance of reporting suspected cases. Similar initiatives are underway in North Kivu and Haut-Uele.
The international community has expressed concern over the escalating Ebola outbreak in the DRC. The World Health Organization (WHO) and other partners are providing support to the DRC government to strengthen its response to the crisis. The situation remains closely monitored, with efforts focused on containing the outbreak and preventing further spread of the virus.
Key points
- Over 2,300 new Ebola cases confirmed in eastern DRC between October 6-26, 2026.
- Ituri and North Kivu provinces have reported the majority of cases.
- Authorities emphasize the need for strengthened coordination and community participation to combat the outbreak.
