Congo Ebola Outbreak Surpasses 5,000 Cases

The Ebola outbreak in Congo has now reached over 5,000 cases, according to government data as of August 19, 2026. The disease is spreading at an alarming speed, outpacing efforts to contain it, especially in remote and challenging areas.

By August 16, the outbreak had recorded 5,021 confirmed cases and 2,378 deaths. The situation is made worse by ongoing insecurity, displacement of people, and heavy population movements. This has created some of the most difficult conditions for controlling the spread of Ebola.

The outbreak has infected and killed more people faster than any previous Ebola outbreak in history. Since the first case was reported, it has spread three times quicker than the 2014-2016 West Africa outbreak, which remains the deadliest on record with over 11,000 deaths.

World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus warned that the epidemic is far from under control. He emphasized the high risk of further spread both nationally and internationally.

Safety challenges have hindered response efforts, as health workers are often targeted, particularly in Ituri province, the hardest-hit area. On August 17, a mob attacked a health team in Aru territory after a suspected Ebola case was reported there. The attackers set fire to an ambulance and damaged other vehicles, according to Michael Wani of the Union of Cultural Associations for the Development of Ituri.