Kasai Province, DRC The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has taken a major step toward ending the most recent Ebola outbreak, following the discharge of the last known patient. This development, confirmed by the World Health Organization (WHO), marks the beginning of a critical 42-day countdown required before the outbreak can officially be declared over.
Since the outbreak was declared on 4 September in Bulape health zone, Kasai Province, a total of 64 cases have been recorded 53 confirmed and 11 considered probable. Nineteen individuals have recovered, and no new infections have been reported since 25 September.
The outbreak occurred in a remote and rural area with limited accessibility. The response faced challenges including long distances, poor road infrastructure, and minimal healthcare facilities. Despite these obstacles, the Ministry of Health, supported by WHO and its partners, rapidly scaled up the response through case management, surveillance, and community engagement.
The coming weeks remain crucial. If no additional cases are detected, health authorities will be able to officially declare the end of the outbreak, marking a successful containment effort in a high-risk setting.
This development highlights the importance of rapid response coordination and continued vigilance in regions prone to infectious disease outbreaks.
