Ebola Outbreak in Democratic Republic of Congo: Over 4,000 Dead and 8,665 Infected - Sarmad

Ebola cases in the Democratic Republic of the Congo have risen to 8,665, with 4,178 deaths since the outbreak began, according to the country’s National Institute of Public Health.

In its daily report, the institute stated that the past 24 hours saw 62 new cases and 30 deaths, while 24 patients recovered, bringing the total number of recorded cases since the start of the outbreak to 8,665, against 4,178 fatalities.

The rise in cases and deaths comes as Congolese authorities intensify efforts to contain the virus outbreak, amid growing international support for the health sector and epidemic response.

On Tuesday, France announced its intention to increase its aid to the Democratic Republic of the Congo to 23 million euros in 2026 to fund Ebola response efforts. The announcement was made by French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot, who recently visited the country.

Last September, the government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo announced an 180-day emergency plan to address the Ebola outbreak, estimating its financial needs at approximately $1.3 billion.

Authorities face additional challenges in dealing with the new strain of the virus, as official data indicate that no licensed vaccine or treatment currently exists for this strain, known as “Bundibugyo.”

Ebola virus disease is a highly dangerous viral illness that can be transmitted between people through contact with the blood or bodily fluids of an infected person, with fatality rates varying depending on the strain and available healthcare conditions.