Ebola outbreak in Democratic Republic of the Congo reaches eighth province

An ongoing outbreak of Ebola virus disease in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has expanded to a total of eight provinces, Google News and Medical Xpress reported. Health officials recorded two cases, including one death, in the newly affected northern province of Nord Ubangi. Authorities confirmed that the spread of the disease is currently outpacing response efforts, according to Medical Xpress. [1][2][3]

Data cited by Google News shows that the outbreak, caused by the Bundibugyo virus, has resulted in 9,455 confirmed cases as of October 18, 2026. Health records up to October 17 report 4,561 related deaths. Currently, 925 patients are in hospital isolation, 2,530 individuals have recovered, and 80 percent of identified contacts are under active follow up. [1][3]

As FTMQ Health reported earlier, the outbreak was officially declared in eastern Congo in May 2026. A clinical trial testing a preventive drug enrolled more than 250 human participants in the country to help combat the virus. [4][5]

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control continues to monitor the situation across all eight affected provinces, as public health authorities attempt to contain further transmission. [1][3]