The Democratic Republic of the Congo is grappling with its 17th Ebola outbreak since the virus was first identified in 1976. The outbreak of the Bundibugyo strain was announced on May 15, though officials have since said it went undetected for weeks. Confirmed cases have climbed to nearly 600, raising awareness within the local population about the importance of safety measures.
Authorities stated that the outbreak has spread to a new health zone in the northeastern province of Ituri. These fresh infections underline sustained transmission more than three weeks after the epidemic was declared.
Efforts to stop the outbreak are being challenged by skepticism among some locals and armed conflicts in hot spots. Mistrust and resistance have hampered the response, with reports of attacks on health workers, burial teams, and treatment centers.
Medics are also struggling to secure basic equipment. While major donors are raising their contributions, the size of the outbreak, logistical problems, and reductions in stocks due to aid cuts have caused shortages.