Confirmed Ebola cases in eastern Congo rise to 1,003, death toll reaches 254

The number of confirmed Ebola cases in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has risen to 1,003, with approximately 254 deaths reported since the outbreak began, according to the country's Health Ministry.

In a statement issued Sunday, the ministry said 100 people in Ituri province have recovered from the disease since the outbreak was declared on May 15, 2026. Another 365 patients remain hospitalized or are being treated in isolation centres.

Health officials said tracing people who have come into contact with infected patients remains the biggest challenge in containing the outbreak. According to the ministry, only 55 per cent of identified contacts are currently being monitored.

Public health experts consider contact tracing a key tool in preventing further spread of Ebola, a severe viral illness that can be fatal if not contained quickly.