Congo reported a record one-day increase in Ebola cases on Monday, as the outbreak declared a month ago continues to spread. Health authorities confirmed that the total number of cases has climbed to 782, with deaths reaching 181.
The Democratic Republic of Congo's health ministry said the latest surge underscores the challenges of containing the virus in a region plagued by conflict and weak infrastructure. The outbreak was officially declared on May 14, and since then, efforts to vaccinate and treat patients have been hampered by community mistrust and security issues.
Rapid Spread Alarms Experts
The World Health Organization has expressed concern over the rapid spread of the virus, which has now affected multiple health zones in North Kivu and Ituri provinces. The new cases represent the highest single-day tally since the outbreak began.
“We are seeing a worrying acceleration in new infections,” said Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa. “Every effort must be made to stop this outbreak before it spirals further out of control.”
Vaccination Campaign Underway
Health workers have vaccinated over 30,000 people, but supplies of the experimental vaccine are limited. The government has appealed for international assistance to secure more doses. Meanwhile, treatment centers are struggling to cope with the influx of patients.
Ebola, which causes severe fever and internal bleeding, has a fatality rate of around 50 percent. The current outbreak is the tenth in Congo since the virus was first identified in 1976.
Regional Response Intensifies
Neighboring countries, including Uganda and Rwanda, have stepped up surveillance at border crossings. The United Nations has deployed additional personnel to support containment efforts.
“This is a critical moment,” said Dr. Oly Ilunga Kalenga, Congo's Minister of Health. “We must act decisively to prevent a full-blown epidemic.”
