Congo Ebola Death Toll Hits 254 as Infections Cross 1,000 Mark

Health authorities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo have confirmed more than 1,000 Ebola infections as the deadly outbreak continues to spread through displacement camps in the country’s conflict-hit eastern region.

The government said 254 people have died since the outbreak began, while experts warn that the escalating crisis could rival the worst Ebola epidemic in recent history.

The latest victim was an 18-month-old girl from the Hungbe displacement camp, whose case has heightened fears over transmission in overcrowded settlements.

A health report said the child tested positive for Ebola on June 14 but died before laboratory results were released.

According to officials, she had suffered from fever for over a week and visited two health centres before finally undergoing an Ebola test.

Investigators identified at least 107 people who came into contact with the child, including family members, medical personnel and residents from neighbouring camps.

Speaking on the challenges facing health workers, Dr. Emmanuel Musingusi Bulemu said inadequate isolation facilities were hampering efforts to contain the disease.

“We need to separate these patients from the community because they risk infecting others, but where can we put them?” he asked.

The outbreak has now spread to a third displacement camp, with two confirmed infections reported in Kpangba camp.

Meanwhile, at least 30 deaths have been recorded in another displacement settlement in Bunia, adding to concerns about the growing humanitarian and public health emergency.

Data from UNICEF indicate that children account for nearly one in every five confirmed Ebola cases, while a small number of infections have also been detected in neighbouring Uganda.

Health experts say the speed of transmission across eastern Congo’s three affected provinces underscores the urgent need for stronger containment measures to prevent further spread.

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