DR Congo Ebola cases rise to 2,181 as death toll reaches 864

DR Congo Ebola cases rise to 2,181 as death toll reaches 864
Health workers wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) carry the coffin of a person who is suspected to have died from Ebola DR Congo, 18 June 2026
Reuters

The Democratic Republic of Congo has recorded 2,181 confirmed Ebola cases, including 864 deaths, according to government data released late on Friday.

The latest figures reflect the total number of confirmed infections as of Thursday and show the outbreak continues to spread in several affected areas.

A government situation report recorded 56 new confirmed cases and 36 additional deaths over the previous 24 hours, highlighting the ongoing challenges facing health authorities as they work to contain the disease.

Ebola is a severe viral illness that can cause fever, vomiting, diarrhoea and, in some cases, fatal internal and external bleeding. Outbreaks are often difficult to control because of transmission through direct contact with infected individuals and contaminated materials.

The latest increase in cases comes as health officials continue surveillance, contact tracing and treatment efforts aimed at limiting further spread of the virus.

The Democratic Republic of Congo has experienced several Ebola outbreaks in recent years, with health authorities and international organisations repeatedly mobilising emergency response measures to contain infections and reduce fatalities.

Officials have not yet provided additional details on the locations of the newly reported cases and deaths. However, the latest figures underscore the continuing public health threat posed by the outbreak.

Health authorities are continuing to monitor the outbreak and implement measures designed to prevent further transmission.

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