DR Congo declares end to 16th Ebola outbreak
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has officially declared an end to its latest Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak, which was first announced on 4 September 2025. According to health authorities, the decision follows 42 consecutive days, two full incubation periods without any new confirmed infections. The last patient tested negative and was discharged on 19 October.
By 30 November, the outbreak had resulted in 64 cases, including 53 confirmed and 11 classified as probable. A total of 45 people lost their lives. The infections were reported across six health areas, with the final confirmed case recorded on 25 September.
In a statement, the World Health Organisation (WHO) confirmed the declaration and noted that it worked closely with national authorities and partners to provide operational, technical, and financial support throughout the response. “This is the country’s 16th outbreak of Ebola. Although the outbreak has been declared over, health authorities are maintaining surveillance to rapidly identify and respond to any re-emergence,” the statement said.
WHO added that risk communication and community engagement efforts will continue, ensuring communities receive accurate information, rumours are addressed promptly, and stigma against survivors is reduced.
Ebola virus disease is a severe and often fatal illness caused by the Ebola virus (EBOV). It is initially transmitted to humans through contact with infected wildlife and spreads between people through direct contact with blood, bodily fluids, organs, or contaminated materials.
Early symptoms typically include sudden fever, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, and fatigue, followed by vomiting, diarrhoea, and occasionally rash. Severe cases may progress to bleeding, shock, organ failure, and pregnancy complications. Previous outbreaks have recorded case fatality rates ranging from 25% to 90%.
