Democratic Republic of the Congo Declares End to Ebola Outbreak in Kasai Province

Successful Containment of the 16th Ebola Outbreak

Kinshasa- The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has officially announced the conclusion of the Ebola virus disease outbreak in Kasai Province. This declaration follows a 42-day period without any new reported cases since the last patient was discharged from the treatment center on October 19, 2025.

Dr. Samuel Roger Kamba, Minister of Public Health, Hygiene and Social Welfare, stated, “Based on comprehensive scientific data and operational evidence confirming the interruption of virus transmission, I formally declare the end of the 16th Ebola outbreak in the DRC.”

Coordinated Response and Impact

The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) and international partners, executed a swift and well-organized response that was crucial in halting the virus’s spread. The outbreak primarily affected the Bulape Health Zone, a remote rural area with limited access to roads and telecommunications. Throughout the outbreak, 64 cases were identified-53 confirmed and 11 probable-with 45 fatalities recorded.

To support the national efforts, WHO deployed 112 experts and frontline responders, while over 150 tonnes of medical supplies and equipment were delivered to safeguard healthcare workers and local communities.

Innovative Treatment and Vaccination Efforts

One of the outbreak’s notable advancements was the introduction of the Infectious Disease Treatment Module (IDTM), a novel facility designed to enhance patient care and safety. Developed jointly by WHO, the World Food Programme, and other partners, the IDTM provided a safer environment for healthcare workers and offered more dignified treatment for patients.

Vaccination campaigns were pivotal in controlling the outbreak, with more than 47,500 individuals immunized. Initially, vaccination targeted contacts of confirmed Ebola cases before expanding to surrounding communities in Bulape.

Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, played an instrumental role by facilitating the rapid deployment of over 48,000 vaccine doses from its global stockpile. This support included prepositioning vaccines within the country, funding delivery logistics, and maintaining essential cold chain infrastructure, all in partnership with WHO and the Ministry of Health.

Statements from Key Health Leaders

Dr. Mohamed Janabi, WHO Regional Director for Africa, praised the rapid containment, saying, “Ending this Ebola outbreak within three months is a remarkable feat. The collaboration between national authorities, healthcare workers, partners, and communities in such a remote area exemplifies effective public health action.” He added that WHO’s involvement has strengthened local health systems, including improvements in water sanitation and safer patient care, which will benefit communities long-term.

Allyson Russell, Senior Programme Manager for Global Health Security at Gavi, emphasized the importance of vaccination and coordinated response efforts: “This swift resolution highlights the power of preparedness and vaccination in combating deadly diseases. The DRC’s experience demonstrates that with timely vaccine deployment and comprehensive interventions like surveillance and case management, Ebola outbreaks can be rapidly controlled, significantly reducing illness and mortality.”

Addressing Infrastructure Challenges and Long-Term Resilience

One significant challenge during the outbreak was the lack of a reliable clean water supply at Bulape hospital, essential for clinical care. WHO and partners installed a piped water system to the hospital and public taps, ensuring ongoing access to safe water for the community. Rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts continue at the hospital and other health facilities to enhance the resilience of the local health infrastructure.

Background and Future Preparedness

This outbreak marks the 16th Ebola occurrence in the DRC since the virus was first identified in 1976. Kasai Province previously experienced outbreaks in 2007 and 2008. Ebola virus disease is a severe and often fatal illness transmitted through direct contact with bodily fluids of infected individuals or contaminated surfaces.

With the outbreak officially over, surveillance efforts are transitioning from Ebola-specific monitoring to the broader Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response (IDSR) system. WHO remains engaged with national and provincial authorities to maintain vigilance and ensure rapid response capabilities in case of any resurgence.

Ongoing Surveillance and Survivor Support

The DRC has initiated a 90-day enhanced disease surveillance period to monitor for any new cases. Additionally, a survivor care program, supported by WHO and partners, is providing comprehensive post-recovery assistance to Ebola survivors, addressing both medical and psychosocial needs.