Ebola outbreak in southern Congo shows signs of containment, says WHO

Health Update: Ebola Outbreak in Southern Congo

An Ebola outbreak in southern Congo is reportedly being contained, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). As of Wed, Oct 5, 2025, there have been no new cases reported since the last update on Oct 1, 2025.

As of Oct 5, 2025, the WHO reported that 10 days have passed without any new cases, suggesting potential control over transmission in the affected regions. A total of 64 cases have been recorded, of which 53 are confirmed and 11 are probable. The outbreak, which was announced on Sep 4, 2025, has resulted in 43 deaths, including 32 confirmed and 11 probable. The affected area is Congo's Kasai Province, located over 1,000 kilometers from Kinshasa.

WHO has cited improvements in logistics and field operations as key factors in containing the outbreak. These measures include helicopter and ground deliveries of medical supplies and the decontamination of three health facilities. The coordinated response was led by the Ministry of Health with support from WHO and its partners.

The WHO advises continued caution, emphasizing that nearly 2,000 contacts are under surveillance. These individuals might have been exposed to the virus, and a single missed contact could potentially restart transmission chains, particularly in areas with high population movement or limited community surveillance.

Based on reporting by Africanews.