KINSHASA, DR CONGO / RankWire.AI / – The ongoing Ebola outbreak in DR Congo has prompted a significant humanitarian response, including the deployment of 70,000 Ervebo Ebola vaccine doses. As the epidemic continues to expand, Congolese officials reported 5,208 confirmed cases and 2,476 fatalities by Aug. 18. The outbreak now impacts 56 health zones spread across six provinces in the eastern and northeastern regions. The situation also includes 1,115 recoveries, with 730 patients still in isolation or hospital care.
Following the government’s appeal for assistance from the global Ebola stockpile, the International Coordinating Group on Vaccine Provision authorized the release of vaccines. WHO indicated that 20,000 doses will be used in a Phase 3 clinical trial targeting Bundibugyo virus disease. The remaining 50,000 doses will be allocated to frontline health workers and medical personnel, in line with current vaccination policies. Both WHO and Africa CDC welcomed this decision, announced on Aug. 20.
Ervebo holds approval for use in outbreaks caused by Ebola virus, previously known as Zaire ebolavirus. However, it does not have formal authorization specifically for Bundibugyo virus disease. Laboratory and animal studies suggest potential cross-protection, but the effectiveness in humans remains uncertain. The upcoming clinical trial aims to evaluate how well the vaccine performs during the outbreak and to provide additional data to inform public health strategies. WHO emphasizes that vaccine recipients should be informed about known risks, possible benefits, and the current knowledge gaps.
The outbreak now spans six provinces in DR Congo
Initially detected in Mongbwalu health zone in Ituri Province, the outbreak was officially confirmed by Congolese authorities in May. Since then, the virus has spread into North Kivu, South Kivu, Haut-Uele, Tshopo, and Bas-Uele. As of Aug. 12, WHO documented 4,665 cases and 2,184 deaths across 54 health zones. Later official reports increased these figures to 5,208 cases, 2,476 fatalities, and 56 affected zones. The latest data indicates a case fatality rate of 47.5%.
WHO describes this as the largest Ebola outbreak ever recorded in DR Congo, with widespread transmission across interconnected regions. The surge in cases and deaths continues, exacerbated by insecurity, population displacements, and high mobility along roads and trade routes that hinder effective surveillance and patient access. Efforts to respond include expanding treatment facilities, enhancing contact tracing, strengthening surveillance, and supporting safe burials. Congolese health authorities have also increased healthcare capacity across affected zones.
Vaccination efforts support outbreak control and scientific research
Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, has committed $7 million to facilitate the shipment of the 70,000 Ervebo doses. Additionally, it allocated $6 million via its First Response Fund to bolster routine immunization and Ebola vaccination readiness. The global Ebola vaccine stockpile, managed by the International Coordinating Group with backing from various partner organizations, supplies vaccines worldwide. Partners include WHO, UNICEF, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, and Médecins Sans Frontières. Gavi provides funding for the stockpile itself.
The outbreak was declared by DR Congo on May 15 following laboratory confirmation of Bundibugyo virus disease. WHO officially declared a public health emergency of international concern on May 17. Since there is no licensed vaccine or specific treatment for Bundibugyo virus disease, supportive care and early detection are crucial. WHO continues to bolster surveillance, clinical management, community engagement, contact tracing, and the provision of essential supplies in affected regions. The allocation of 70,000 vaccine doses aims to support both immediate vaccination efforts and ongoing research activities as part of a comprehensive response.