By: Xolani Khumalo
Health authorities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo have declared a new Ebola virus outbreak in Kasai Province, raising fresh concerns in a region still grappling with fragile healthcare systems.
According to the Ministry of Health, 28 suspected cases have been identified, with 15 reported deaths, including four healthcare workers, in the affected areas of Bulape and Mweka. Investigations and contact tracing are currently underway.
This marks the country’s first outbreak since April 2022, when the virus re-emerged in Equateur Province. The DRC has experienced multiple Ebola outbreaks in recent decades, with the largest between 2018 and 2020, which claimed over 2,200 lives.
Dr Mohamed El Sahly Janabi, the World Health Organisation’s Regional Director for Africa, stated:
“We are acting with urgency and determination to halt the spread of the virus and protect affected communities. Timely intervention and coordinated response are critical.”
International and regional support mobilised
The World Health Organisation (WHO), in collaboration with local authorities and partners such as Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), has begun deploying rapid response teams and essential supplies, including personal protective equipment (PPE), diagnostic tools, and vaccines.
South Africa’s National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) has also indicated it is monitoring the situation closely, though there are no immediate threats to South Africa. The NICD has urged travellers and border personnel to remain vigilant.
