DRC Reports 134 Ebola Cases and 18 Deaths in Latest Outbreak

The Democratic Republic of Congo has recorded 134 confirmed Ebola cases and 18 deaths since the outbreak was declared 14 days earlier. The World Health Organization listed the same totals for the DRC and neighboring Uganda in its May 30 update. Minister of Communication Patrick Muyaya spoke from Bunia, the epicenter in Ituri province, on May 30.

He said the government has set a target of 90 to 120 days to contain the situation.

Officials are monitoring 2,635 contacts of suspected cases and treating 125 patients. One female patient has recovered after two negative tests and release from care. Aid organizations have increased support and supplies for health care workers are sufficient, Muyaya stated.

A health worker in protective equipment was photographed cleaning sections of the General Referral Hospital of Mongbwalu on May 23.

Uganda has closed its borders with the DRC.

The World Health Organization stated that such closures are usually implemented out of fear and have no basis in science. Muyaya noted that Ebola spreads through contact with bodily fluids rather than through the air like COVID-19.

Muyaya said misinformation and disinformation, particularly on social media, remain among the largest obstacles. Some residents in the affected region do not believe Ebola exists or believe aid workers introduced it to generate revenue. The government is addressing these concerns through daily briefings led by the health minister and direct engagement with local community leaders.

Muyaya said the DRC has managed multiple prior Ebola outbreaks and possesses some of the world's most experienced physicians for this strain.