DRC: Nearly 60% of Ebola deaths occur in communities

The situation is improving in several hotspots, particularly in Ituri, where cases and deaths are declining. However, Africa CDC notes increases in certain health zones, especially in North Kivu. The available data do not yet confirm whether the outbreak has peaked or if transmission has been sustainably interrupted.

More than 7,200 confirmed cases and 3,510 deaths had been reported this week across seven provinces, according to data relayed by Reuters. The daily number of new cases has decreased from the peak observed in mid-August, but health authorities consider the situation in North Kivu concerning.

Signs of a slowdown are nonetheless being observed. Ten of the 62 affected health zones had not recorded any new cases for over 22 days, while laboratory, treatment, community surveillance, and contact tracing capacities have been strengthened.

Africa CDC calls for continued intensive monitoring in affected areas, newly impacted regions, or those facing a resurgence of infections. The agency also highlights gaps in contact identification and ongoing disruptions to essential health services.

The World Health Organization also urged caution this week despite the observed progress. More than 3,000 frontline workers have received the Ervebo vaccine, while its level of protection against the Bundibugyo virus responsible for the outbreak continues to be studied.