In early September 2025, the Democratic Republic of the Congo declared its 16th Ebola outbreak, centering in Kasai Province. Health authorities confirmed the outbreak on 4 September, after a series of suspected cases and fatalities had emerged.
The index case was a 34-year-old pregnant woman from Boulapé (Bulape), a locality in southern Kasai. She exhibited high fever, vomiting, bloody diarrhea, hemorrhaging, and extreme fatigue. After being admitted on 20 August, she tragically succumbed to multiple organ failure on 25 August.
As of 4 September, there were 28 suspected cases, with 15 deaths reported—a case fatality rate (CFR) of approx. 54%. Among the deceased were four healthcare workers, underscoring the perilous risks faced by medical personnel. The suspected cases span several areas within Bulape health zone (including Bulape Com and Dikolo) and parts of the neighboring Mweka health zone.
Laboratory testing performed at the INRB (National Institute of Biomedical Research) in Kinshasa using GeneXpert and PCR assays confirmed the virus as the Zaire strain of Ebola, recognized as the most virulent form. Genome sequencing suggests this outbreak stems from a new zoonotic spillover event, rather than a resurgence of prior outbreaks.
In response, a Rapid Response Team, backed by the World Health Organization (WHO) and other partners, has been deployed to Kasai to bolster surveillance, case management, infection prevention, and community engagement. Supplies including personal protective equipment (PPE), mobile labs, treatments, and 2,000 doses of the Ervebo vaccine are being mobilized to support containment efforts.
Authorities emphasize proactive measures such as limiting public gatherings, reinforcing hygiene practices, and localized movement restrictions. However, containment is challenged by a fragile healthcare infrastructure, supply shortages, and the lingering impact of regional conflicts.
This outbreak marks another sobering reminder of the DRC’s longstanding battle with Ebola, particularly given the complexities of controlling highly infectious hemorrhagic fevers in regions with limited resources and ongoing instability.