The Democratic Republic of Congo is facing its deadliest Ebola outbreak ever, with more than 6,186 confirmed cases and 3,007 deaths reported as of 1 September 2026 since the epidemic was declared in May. According to The Conversation Africa, the outbreak, driven by the Bundibugyo strain for which no licensed vaccine or specific treatment exists, could become the worst Ebola epidemic in history unless response efforts are accelerated.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has expressed concern over a significant outbreak of Bundibugyo virus disease (BVD), a strain of Ebola, which has resulted in 454 fatalities. The situation is worsening, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo, prompting urgent attention from health authorities.

Uganda recently closed its border with the Democratic Republic of Congo to prevent the spread of Ebola, as the Congo faces a significant outbreak with over 1,000 suspected and confirmed cases and more than 250 deaths reported as of May 27, 2026, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control. Public health experts suggest that such border closures may not be the most effective strategy in managing the outbreak.

The World Health Organization says an additional 5 000 healthcare workers are needed to contain the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo. According to The Citizen, the outbreak has spread across six provinces, placing severe strain on treatment centres and frontline healthcare staff. The appeal highlights the growing pressure on the country's health system as authorities and international agencies work to curb transmission and provide care to affected communities in the region.

The World Health Organization has warned that the Democratic Republic of Congo requires about 5,000 additional trained health workers, along with support from international organizations or funding, to contain an Ebola outbreak spreading across the country. According to Nairametrics, the WHO said the extra personnel are needed to keep pace with the virus as it continues to spread.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has reported over 1,000 confirmed cases of Ebola, with the total reaching 1,003, including 254 deaths, according to the DRC Health Ministry. The outbreak is still active and has not yet peaked, indicating ongoing concerns regarding the spread of the virus.