DR Congo Ebola death toll surpasses 300 as cases rise

The death toll from Ebola virus disease in the Democratic Republic of Congo has surpassed 300 people, health authorities said Thursday. The epidemic, caused by the Bundibugyo strain, has affected 34 health zones and remains active in three provinces: Ituri, North Kivu, and South Kivu. The tally of confirmed cases has climbed to 1,155, including 304 deaths since the outbreak was declared on May 15, with a fatality rate of 26.3%, according to the Health Ministry.

Recoveries and funding gap

The ministry reported 16 newly recovered patients in Ituri, bringing total recoveries to 138. Meanwhile, Africa CDC said the continental Ebola outbreak response plan requires $1.4 billion for combined humanitarian and health needs. African states and partners pledged $910 million at a recent AU-led meeting, but only 13% of pledged funds have been released to affected countries and operational partners. The Congolese government has imposed a 21-day mandatory quarantine on travellers from affected areas to curb the spread.