Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo) has resulted in over 5,600 cases and 2,700 deaths across six provinces since it began in mid-May, according to the UN chief.
While the World Health Organization (WHO) believes the spread has slowed, it has not yet reversed the trend, with about 500 new cases reported each week. However, the humanitarian response remains underfunded, with only 48% of necessary funding secured. The UN has called for an additional $1.1 billion to sustain and scale up vital operations.
Efforts to contain Ebola face multiple obstacles, including decades of conflict that have displaced about one million people in Ituri province and weakened health infrastructure. More than 12 million people in the region require aid and protection. Attacks on healthcare workers, treatment centres, and ambulances have compounded difficulties, leading to over 40 deaths among health personnel.
Civil society has mobilized in response. Congolese singer and UNICEF ambassador Lokua Kanza, the Wedy duo, and Drigo Eboma have used their platforms to raise awareness. Fifteen social media influencers and over 50 religious leaders in Ituri are promoting preventive measures and countering misinformation. The UN and local partners have also trained some former combatants to educate populations in high-traffic areas in Ituri.