The death toll from the rapidly spreading Ebola outbreak in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo has crossed 1,500, according to official data released on Thursday. The outbreak, described as the fastest-growing Ebola crisis recorded in the region, has continued to expand despite ongoing response efforts and has raised concerns among health authorities.

According to the latest government update, 3,442 cases have been recorded as of Tuesday, with 1,521 deaths reported. The outbreak, which was declared on May 15, has been linked to the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus, for which no approved vaccines or specific treatments are currently available.

Health officials said 797 patients are currently receiving treatment in isolation facilities or hospitals, while 615 people have recovered. However, contact tracing efforts remain below the required level, with only about 78% of identified contacts being monitored nationwide compared with the 95% coverage target considered necessary to control transmission.

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The outbreak is largely concentrated in the eastern Ituri province, which accounts for nearly 90% of reported cases, though infections have also been confirmed in five other provinces, including Kisangani, one of Congo’s major cities. Authorities have faced challenges in tracking infections due to displacement caused by armed conflict and illegal mining activities, which have disrupted access to affected communities.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has said the global risk of Ebola spreading remains low because the virus is transmitted through direct contact with infected bodily fluids rather than through the air. However, the WHO has warned that the risk within Congo remains “very high” due to the speed of transmission and difficulties in maintaining health operations.

The response effort has been further complicated by security issues, misinformation and attacks on healthcare facilities. Some communities have questioned the existence of the virus, while restrictions on traditional burial practices aimed at reducing transmission have created tensions and resistance among residents.

International organisations supporting the response in Ituri’s Nyakunde health zone temporarily relocated following an attack on a hospital and treatment centre on July 15 after a patient’s death. Officials said the withdrawal affected surveillance, contact tracing and medical supply operations, with remaining stocks reportedly running low.

Health authorities said security conditions have since improved and are encouraging response teams to return. The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention and other partners are expected to resume operations soon, while health workers continue efforts to contain the outbreak despite infection risks and security challenges.

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