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The Democratic Republic of Congo is battling a new Ebola outbreak, with health officials confirming 11 additional cases in the Bulape Health Zone of Kasai Province.
The outbreak is concentrated in six areas — Bambalaie, Bulape, Bulape Communautaire, Dikolo, Ingongo, and Mpianga. As of September 21, the number of reported cases has risen to 57 (47 confirmed, 10 probable), with 35 deaths recorded. The overall fatality rate stands at 61.4%, and five health workers are among those infected.
Children under nine have been hit hardest, accounting for nearly a quarter of cases. Women represent 61% of infections, though men face a higher fatality rate (73% compared to 56% among women). Vulnerable groups include children, housekeepers, and farmers.
The Africa CDC reported last week that at least 16 deaths and 68 suspected cases had been linked to the outbreak since it was first declared earlier this month.
Response efforts have been hampered by limited resources. Only 400 doses of the Ervebo vaccine have been dispatched so far, though 45,000 additional doses have been approved for delivery. A stockpile of 2,000 doses is already in the country, but the WHO says vaccination campaigns face logistical and funding challenges.
This marks DRC’s 16th Ebola outbreak since the virus was first identified in 1976, caused by the Zaire strain. The crisis adds pressure to a health system already weakened by conflict with rebel groups in the east.
