Congo Reports New Ebola Outbreak In Kasai Province With Rising Cases And Deaths

An Ebola outbreak has been confirmed in Kasai Province, Democratic Republic of the Congo. As of 4 September 2025, there are 28 suspected cases and 15 fatalities, including four healthcare workers. The World Health Organisation (WHO) and a national Rapid Response Team have been dispatched to enhance disease monitoring and control measures in the region.

WHO experts in epidemiology, infection control, laboratory work, and case management are collaborating with local health authorities. Their goal is to improve surveillance and treatment facilities swiftly. Additionally, provincial risk communication specialists are engaging communities to educate them on protective measures against the virus.

Dr Mohamed Janabi, WHO Regional Director for Africa, stated, "We’re acting with determination to rapidly halt the spread of the virus and protect communities." He emphasised the importance of leveraging the country's experience in managing viral outbreaks to expedite response efforts.

To support these efforts, WHO is supplying two tonnes of essential items such as personal protective equipment and mobile lab tools. The country also has a reserve of treatments and 2000 doses of the Ervebo Ebola vaccine. These resources are stationed in Kinshasa and will be transported to Kasai for vaccinating contacts and frontline health workers.

The number of cases is expected to rise due to ongoing transmission. Response teams are actively identifying individuals who may be infected to ensure they receive timely care. This approach aims to protect everyone as quickly as possible.

Efforts are being made to contain the outbreak by scaling up key response measures promptly. The collaboration between WHO and local health authorities is crucial in ending this outbreak swiftly.

With inputs from WAM