DRC Declares New Ebola Outbreak as Africa CDC Steps In

By The Inspirer.

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia | September 4, 2025 — The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has confirmed its 16th outbreak of Ebola virus disease (EVD), with Kasai Province emerging as the latest epicenter, government officials announced Thursday.

The outbreak’s index case is a 34-year-old pregnant woman admitted to hospital last month with high fever and persistent vomiting.

Authorities report 15 deaths so far and 28 suspected cases spread across two health zones, Bulape and Mweka. Four infections have been identified among healthcare workers.

Laboratory analysis confirmed the Zaire strain of Ebola, while investigations continue into the source of exposure.

Kasai last battled Ebola in 2008, while Equateur province faced an outbreak in 2022.

In response, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has mobilized immediate support to DRC’s Ministry of Health.

Africa CDC Director General Dr Jean Kaseya traveled to Kinshasa to coordinate efforts and oversee the deployment of experts to strengthen surveillance, contact tracing, laboratory capacity, data management, and infection prevention measures in affected areas.

“Africa CDC stands firmly with the people of the Democratic Republic of Congo. I have met with the Minister of Health to coordinate an urgent response, and we are taking strong measures to bring this outbreak under control — protecting communities and supporting the health workers on the frontlines,” Dr Kaseya said.

Ebola virus disease is a severe zoonotic infection transmitted from wild animals such as fruit bats, porcupines, and primates to humans.

Human-to-human spread occurs through direct contact with blood, bodily fluids, or contaminated materials. Symptoms include fever, fatigue, muscle pain, headache, vomiting, diarrhoea, and unexplained bleeding.

The disease’s average fatality rate is about 50 percent.

Africa CDC reaffirmed its commitment to bolstering DRC’s outbreak response, with emphasis on digitalised surveillance, effective tracing, case management, and vaccination support.

Protecting healthcare workers through robust infection prevention and control will also remain a top priority.