The Democratic Republic of Congo’s Ebola outbreak has crossed 8,000 confirmed cases, with health authorities reporting 8,067 cases and 3,901 deaths as of September 26.
The outbreak has spread across 63 health zones in seven provinces, with a case-fatality rate of about 48%, according to the health ministry.
The outbreak, declared on May 15, is Congo’s 17th and deadliest, caused by the rare Bundibugyo virus. There is currently no known treatment or vaccine for the strain.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) said the persistently high fatality rate, particularly deaths occurring in communities, showed continuing difficulties in early detection and access to adequate treatment.
The response is also being weakened by a shortage of health workers, delayed payments and strikes. The Africa CDC said 50 health workers have died since the outbreak began.
Scepticism about Ebola has contributed to attacks on health workers and facilities. The ruling UDPS party said one of its officials, Marie-Clestin Karondwa, was attacked after defending the government’s response during a radio programme.
The outbreak has also disrupted other health services. OCHA said routine primary healthcare activity in Ituri fell 13% between April and June as resources shifted to Ebola efforts.
WHO and Africa CDC said the outbreak is spreading geographically, with transmission continuing in Ituri, North Kivu, Haut-Uele and Tshopo.
Officials cited insecurity, displacement, population movement and staff shortages as major obstacles to containment.
