Ebola outbreak in eastern DRC: Current situation as of June 8, 2026

The Ebola virus disease outbreak (Bundibugyo strain) continues to strain the eastern regions of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. According to the latest health bulletin from the National Institute of Public Health, the situation remains critical with 515 confirmed cases recorded across Ituri, North Kivu, and South Kivu provinces since the outbreak’s inception.

Of these cases, 91 have resulted in death, representing a global case fatality rate of 17.7%. Authorities report that 283 patients remain in isolation or under medical care, while 12 individuals have recovered since the outbreak began. In the last 24 hours alone, 27 new confirmed cases have been documented.

Geographic spread: 25 health zones affected

The outbreak has now spread across 25 health zones out of the country’s 104 total zones. The Ituri province remains the epicenter, with 17 of its 36 health zones reporting active cases, including Aru, Aungba, Bambu, Bunia, Damas, Gety, Kilo, Komanda, Lita, Logo, Mambasa, Mangala, Mongbwalu, Nizi, Nyankunde, Rimba, and Rwampara.

North and South Kivu also affected

While Ituri bears the brunt of the outbreak, neighboring provinces are also experiencing active transmission. The Katwa health zone in North Kivu reports the highest activity in that province with 11 confirmed cases and 8 deaths. Other affected zones include:

• Beni: 5 confirmed cases, 3 deaths
• Butembo: 4 confirmed cases, 2 deaths
• Miti-Murhesa: 3 confirmed cases, 1 death
• Oicha: 2 confirmed cases, 2 deaths
• Kalunguta: 1 confirmed case, 1 death
• Kyondo: 1 confirmed case, 0 deaths
• Goma: 1 confirmed case, 0 deaths

Challenges hampering response efforts

Health teams face mounting challenges in containing the outbreak. Persistent insecurity in parts of Ituri, combined with logistical hurdles in reaching affected communities, has complicated response efforts. Additionally, rampant misinformation and rumors continue to undermine prevention measures and community cooperation.

Health authorities are urging the public to immediately report any suspected cases and strictly adhere to prevention protocols to curb further spread of the virus. The situation demands heightened vigilance and collective action to prevent this outbreak from worsening.