Phoenix 24
Suspected cases emerge in a previously unaffected province.
KINSHASA, DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO — July 2026. Congo’s Ebola outbreak has killed 600 people and infected 1,759 since authorities declared the emergency on May 15. Health officials reported 51 new infections and 20 deaths within a recent 24-hour period. The World Health Organization warns that the epidemic remains in an expansion phase.
Two suspected cases have been detected in Kisangani, one of the country’s largest cities and the capital of Tshopo province. One patient is linked to the original outbreak area in Ituri, while the second has no known geographical connection. Laboratory tests are underway to determine whether both infections involve Ebola.
Authorities have intensified surveillance, contact tracing and containment measures in Tshopo and neighboring Haut-Uele, areas previously unaffected by the outbreak. Continued population movement between provinces is increasing the risk of transmission beyond the eastern regions. The appearance of an unconnected suspected case has raised concern that additional transmission chains may remain undetected.
The epidemic is caused by the rare Bundibugyo species of the virus, for which no approved vaccine or targeted treatment is currently available. Clinical trials have begun, but overwhelmed treatment centers, shortages of protective equipment and conflict in eastern Congo are complicating the response. Delayed payments to frontline workers have created further pressure on an already fragile health system.
Every unidentified transmission chain gives the virus another path forward.