Ebola Outbreak Kills 220 in DRC's Ituri Province
WHO declares international emergency as deadly Ebola outbreak spreads in northeastern DRC, with over 220 suspected deaths and 900 cases since May 14. The highly contagious Bundibugyo strain (50% fatality rate with no approved vaccines) has overwhelmed health systems in violence-hit Ituri province, where armed groups have roamed for years.
A young woman arrived at Rwampara hospital on a motorcycle exhibiting classic symptoms: 39.7°C temperature, nose bleeding, and weakness after childbirth. Her family initially thought she had malaria and treated her with tablets and medicinal plants before seeking help. With no ambulances available, locals use motorcycles, risking contamination.
The response faces multiple challenges: isolation centers burned by angry crowds, government flight restrictions to Bunia airport, and limited community trust due to years of conflict. International medical corps are providing training and protective equipment while conducting contact tracing to contain the spread. Without vaccines, containment depends entirely on preventive measures and early detection.