The Ebola outbreak caused by the Bundibugyo virus strain continues to intensify in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. According to the latest epidemiological report from the National Institute of Public Health, the Ituri, North Kivu, and South Kivu provinces now account for 550 confirmed cases, including 101 deaths.

Last 24 hours: 27 new confirmed cases

Between June 5 and June 6, 27 new confirmed cases were reported across multiple affected zones. Currently, 283 patients remain hospitalized or in isolation, while the overall case fatality rate stands at 17.7% according to health authorities. Some data is still being harmonized.

Ituri remains the epicenter

The geographical spread indicates that Ituri province bears the brunt of the outbreak. Of the 25 affected health zones, 17 are in Ituri — nearly half of the province’s 36 health zones. The most impacted areas include Aru, Aungba, Bambu, Bunia, Damas, Gety, Kilo, Komanda, Lita, Logo, Mambasa, Mangala, Mongbwalu, Nizi, Nyankunde, Rimba, and Rwampara. Despite ongoing surveillance and awareness campaigns, the virus continues to circulate in these territories.

Active hotspots in North Kivu and South Kivu

Beyond Ituri, several health zones in North Kivu and South Kivu are also reporting cases. Katwa remains the most active hotspot with 11 confirmed cases and 8 deaths, followed by Beni (5 cases, 3 deaths), Butembo (4 cases, 2 deaths), Miti-Murhesa (3 cases, 1 death), Oïcha (2 cases, 2 deaths), Kalunguta (1 case, 1 death), Kyondo (1 case, 0 deaths), and Goma (1 case, 0 deaths).

Encouraging signs: three recoveries

Health teams report progress with three patients declared cured. Two were discharged from care centers in Bunia, and one returned home in Katwa. Efforts continue across all affected zones, with a focus on infection prevention in health facilities, contact tracing, and community sensitization.

Path forward: building trust and early detection

Health authorities emphasize that restoring community trust, early case detection, and strict adherence to prevention measures are critical to breaking transmission chains in the coming weeks.

Reporting by Freddy UPAR in Bunia