The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has reached 5,000 cases and over 2,000 deaths, marking the largest and deadliest in the country's history.
The outbreak, first reported on 15 May, is now on course to become the largest in the world. The Bundibugyo strain, which has no licensed vaccine or medicine, has spread across Ituri and North Kivu provinces, where armed conflict has displaced thousands. Health workers are struggling to trace contacts, with only 12% of contacts identified so far, far below the 95% target.
Local mistrust of authorities has hindered efforts, with many delaying treatment or avoiding treatment centres. In remote areas, cash shortages have also complicated response efforts, as mobile money systems are unavailable and airports remain closed to commercial flights.
Why it matters
The Bundibugyo strain continues to be monitored following its initial detection, but africa CDC guidance does not by itself prove national case counts, causation or response performance.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.
What to watch
Watch for official outbreak declarations and surveillance updates in subsequent official updates.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.