Ebola Congo: The Ebola outbreak in southern Democratic Republic of Congo is showing signs of being brought under control, the World Health Organization (WHO) said Wednesday, with no new cases reported since Oct. 1.
“As of Oct. 5, 2025, 10 days have passed without any newly reported cases, indicating potential control of transmission in the affected areas,” WHO officials said at a briefing.
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The outbreak, declared on Sept. 4 in Kasai Province, the region’s first in 18 years and more than 1,000 km from Kinshasa, has totalled 64 cases (53 confirmed, 11 probable) and 43 deaths (32 confirmed, 11 probable) as of Oct. 5, according to the agency.
WHO credited improved logistics and field operations over the past week, including helicopter and ground deliveries of medical supplies and decontamination of three health facilities, with helping to suppress transmission. “This steady decline in transmission and improved case management reflects the impact of coordinated interventions led by the Ministry of Health with support from WHO and partners,” the agency said.
Officials cautioned, however, that the response remains fragile. Nearly 2,000 contacts are still under monitoring, and “a single missed contact could reignite transmission chains,” particularly in areas with high population movement or limited community surveillance. Health authorities and aid groups have warned that funding gaps continue to constrain the response.
Surveillance, contact tracing, safe burials, infection prevention measures, and community engagement will continue in Kasai until the outbreak meets criteria for closure.
