At least 930 people have died in Congo's Ebola outbreak
[July 20, 2026]
BUNIA, Congo (AP) — At least 930 people have died in Congo’s Ebola
outbreak, the country’s Ministry of Health said Monday, with 37 new
deaths recorded in a 24-hour span Friday into Saturday, one of the
highest totals.
The deaths were recorded out of the 2,344 cases confirmed as of
Saturday, the health ministry said.
The Ebola outbreak that was declared in eastern Congo on May 15 is the
fastest-growing Ebola outbreak on record. The Bundibugyo virus
responsible for the outbreak is less common than others that cause Ebola
disease, and there is no approved vaccine or treatment.
Ebola is highly contagious and can be transmitted to people from wild
animals. It spreads in the human population through contact with bodily
fluids such as vomit, blood or semen, and with contaminated surfaces and
materials such as bedding and clothing. The disease is rare but severe
and often fatal.
The surge in deaths comes as safety fears have restricted the response
in the worst-affected province of Ituri. A total of five provinces have
been affected, all in the eastern region where rebel violence is
rampant.
At least 12 attacks — mostly fueled by skepticism and rumors — have been
recorded against health facilities and teams since the outbreak was
declared in mid-May, authorities said Saturday. Many health workers
meanwhile have walked off their jobs as they protest lack of payment.
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Health workers involved in Congo's Ebola response go on strike as
they protest over payment issues in Bunia, Congo, Wednesday, July
15, 2026. (AP Photo/Constant Same Bagalwa)
 At least 36 health workers infected
with the virus have died.
The World Health Organization last week expressed concerns that 80%
of new Ebola cases were emerging from unknown chains of
transmission, a sign the outbreak is spreading faster than health
officials can track despite an expanding response.
Congo's Health Ministry said in its latest update that 724 patients
are currently in isolation and in hospitals, and that it is
intensifying response efforts in affected health zones.
“Patient care and support capacities are consolidating, with 22 new
recoveries recorded in 24 hours,” the ministry said.
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