The Ebola epidemic in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo continues to spread, with 676 confirmed cases and 136 deaths.

According to the warning from the World Health Organization (WHO), the Ebola epidemic in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is worsening. On Thursday, the Ministry of Health in DRC reported 676 confirmed cases, of which 136 were fatal, associated with the rare Bundibugyo strain. Most cases are recorded in Ituri province, but infections have been reported in 34 health zones in Ituri, North Kivu, and South Kivu.

Olivier le Polain, head of the WHO Epidemiology unit, emphasized that increased population mobility contributes to the spread of the epidemic. Fragile health systems and insecurity in the area complicate the response to the epidemic, but DRC has experience in managing Ebola.

WHO highlighted the need to strengthen surveillance and contact tracing, noting a recent improvement in identifying contacts. Essential recommended measures include safe burials, reducing risks in healthcare facilities, and involving the community in managing the epidemic. In Uganda, the epidemic is considered under control.