DR Congo Ebola Outbreak: Doctors Warn Epidemic 'Will Last' Despite Some Recoveries

More than a month after the Ebola outbreak was officially declared in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, doctors and humanitarian workers are warning that the epidemic is far from contained, despite some encouraging recoveries. On June 16, 2026, medical staff at the general hospital in Mongbwalu, eastern DR Congo, celebrated the discharge of three patients: a man, a woman, and a child. The woman, Florance, is a hospital accountant who contracted the virus while handling the bodies of deceased patients. She sought treatment immediately, before symptoms appeared. Fourteen patients in total have recovered in Mongbwalu, offering a glimmer of hope. However, the situation remains dire across the 34 affected zones in two countries, Uganda and the DR Congo.

The outbreak was officially declared on May 17, 2026, but the World Health Organization received an alert as early as May 5. Cases are believed to have occurred in April, possibly even early April, though the index case is unknown. As of June 15, there were 837 confirmed cases and 196 deaths, but numbers have since risen to 1,155 confirmed cases and 304 deaths. Dr. Guyguy Manangama, an epidemiologist with Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), notes that not all recent deaths have been tested for Ebola—some could be due to malaria or other infections. Additionally, many cases are in inaccessible areas due to security concerns, especially mining communities with cross-border movement.

Contact tracing remains a major hurdle. Only about 40% of contacts are currently being traced, far below the 90–95% needed to control the outbreak. Without improvement, case numbers could reach record levels. The hospital in Mongbwalu lacks basic supplies, including a blood bank and electrolytes essential for treating patients with vomiting and diarrhea. Medical teams also face hostility from some community members, who sometimes chase them away with sharp objects. Distrust is fueled by rumors linking the disease to organ trafficking, and many resist safe burial practices. Two treatment centers were attacked in early June.

Despite these challenges, there are signs of progress. A laboratory from the National Institute of Biomedical Research was set up in Mongbwalu on June 3, enabling faster diagnosis. Treatment has evolved since the 2014 epidemic, with monoclonal antibodies and redesigned centers that allow family visits. Recovered patients are becoming ambassadors to help dispel rumors and build trust within communities.