WHO Reports 600 Ebola Deaths in DR Congo as Uganda Confirms Cross-Border Cases
Oluwatobi Adu 
ABUJA, Nigeria – The World Health Organization (WHO) says the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has resulted in 600 deaths, with neighbouring Uganda also recording infections as regional health authorities strengthen surveillance and response measures.
According to updated figures released on Thursday, the DRC has reported 1,759 laboratory-confirmed Ebola infections since the outbreak began in May.
The WHO said the outbreak has so far claimed 600 lives, while 285 patients have recovered and 304 suspected cases are still under investigation.
Uganda has also confirmed 20 Ebola infections, with two fatalities and 17 recoveries, raising concerns about cross-border transmission.
The agency said Ituri Province remains the most affected area despite infections spreading to other northeastern provinces.
Health officials explained that the outbreak involves the Bundibugyo Ebola virus, a rare strain that currently has no licensed vaccine or approved treatment for humans.
To improve patient outcomes, Congolese authorities have commenced a clinical study assessing the effectiveness of MBP134 monoclonal antibody therapy and remdesivir, both separately and in combination.
The WHO reiterated that Ebola spreads through direct contact with infected bodily fluids and contaminated materials, stressing that early diagnosis, prompt isolation, safe burials and effective contact tracing remain essential to breaking transmission.
The outbreak, officially declared on May 15, marks the country’s 17th Ebola epidemic, with insecurity in affected communities continuing to complicate response efforts.
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Korede Abdullah 
