The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention has declared a new Ebola outbreak in eastern Ituri province, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), with 65 deaths reported among approximately 246 suspected cases.
According to the CDC Africa's statement on Friday, the majority of these infections have been recorded mainly in Mongwalu and Rwampara health zones. "Four deaths were confirmed through laboratory tests," said Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa. The agency is also convening a meeting with DRC, Uganda, South Sudan, as well as other international partners to discuss response efforts and cross-border surveillance.
Ebola is highly contagious and often fatal, causing severe bleeding and organ failure through direct contact with bodily fluids such as vomit, blood or semen. Early symptoms include fever, muscle pain, fatigue, headaches and a sore throat, which can progress to more serious conditions if left untreated. The latest outbreak has raised concerns that it may be caused by a new strain of the virus.
This is DRC's 17th recorded Ebola outbreak since its first emergence in 1976. An earlier epidemic from 2018-2020 claimed over 1,300 lives there alone. Ituri province lies in remote eastern Congo with poor road networks and a distance of more than 620 miles to the capital Kinshasa.
The new Ebola outbreak comes only five months after DRC declared its previous epidemic concluded following 43 deaths. With ongoing conflicts involving armed groups like M23, health workers face added challenges providing care in this volatile region.
"The current situation is worrying for a country already dealing with numerous security threats," Dr Moeti said during the press conference on Friday afternoon. "We urgently need to coordinate efforts and resources at all levels." The World Health Organization has expressed concern about potential cross-border spread, particularly given Ituri's shared borders with Uganda and South Sudan.
Health officials will deploy rapid response teams as soon as possible, hoping to contain this emerging threat before it can gain momentum in the population. While laboratory confirmation of suspected cases is ongoing, public health measures are being implemented immediately to prevent further transmission.
This article was produced by AVALW News on Friday, May 15, 2026 based on reporting from 5 verified news sources. Our editorial process cross-references facts from multiple independent outlets to deliver accurate, comprehensive coverage. All original sources are linked below.