DRC Ebola Cases Exceed 6,000, Death Toll Reaches 2,911

As of August 31, 2026, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has confirmed over 6,000 Ebola cases, with the death toll reaching 2,911. This outbreak, caused by the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus, is the largest and deadliest in DRC history.

The DRC Ministry of Communication and Media reported 6,041 confirmed infections, 1,366 recoveries, and 2,911 deaths. The outbreak was formally declared on May 15, 2026, after laboratory tests confirmed the virus in Ituri Province.

The World Health Organization classified it as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern on May 17. The response is active across six provinces and 60 health zones, with no new infections reported in the last 24 hours.

The United Nations has allocated up to $60 million for response operations, but challenges remain due to insecurity and limited access in eastern DRC. The United Nations Development Programme warns that a wider outbreak could cost Africa up to $3.6 billion in economic output and lead to significant job losses.