Outbreak of rare strain of Ebola claims at least 65 lives in DR Congo

May 16, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Outbreak of rare strain of Ebola claims at least 65 lives in DR Congo

Ebola Outbreak Confirmed in Democratic Republic of Congo

A new outbreak of a rare strain of Ebola has been reported in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s Ituri province, resulting in at least 65 confirmed deaths. According to official reports, 246 individuals have been suspected to be infected with the virus.

The outbreak has also claimed one life in Uganda’s capital city, Kampala, where a Congolese national died from complications related to Ebola. This development has raised concerns about the potential for further spread of the disease across international borders.

The Democratic Republic of Congo is currently experiencing its sixth Ebola outbreak since 2014. The Ituri province has been particularly affected by the current outbreak, with multiple cases reported in recent weeks.

Health officials are working to contain the outbreak and prevent further transmission of the virus. Efforts are being made to provide medical care and support to those affected, as well as to identify and isolate potential contacts.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has been notified of the outbreak and is providing assistance to the Democratic Republic of Congo in response to the situation. The WHO has also issued guidance on how to prevent the spread of Ebola and has urged individuals to take precautions to protect themselves from infection.

As the situation continues to unfold, health officials are urging caution and vigilance in the affected areas and beyond.

Source: Al Jazeera