The 16th outbreak of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is showing signs of stabilisation, according to the Ebola – Operation Update #2 (MDRCD047) issued by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). The situation report, published on 2 November 2025.
According to the report, the outbreak—declared on 4 September 2025 by the Minister of Public Health, Hygiene and Prevention—has affected Kasai Province, with Bulape and Dikolo health areas serving as the epicentres. These two areas account for approximately 78% of all reported cases. Since the previous operational update, DRC has recorded 64 cumulative cases, including 53 confirmed and 11 probable infections.
As of 20 October 2025, epidemiological data indicate that the outbreak in the Bulape health zone is increasingly under control. The last active patient was discharged from the Ebola Treatment Centre (ETC) on 19 October, triggering the mandatory 42-day countdown required before health authorities can declare the end of the outbreak. If no new infections are detected, the outbreak could be declared over by the end of November 2025. The IFRC stresses that strong surveillance and continued preparedness remain essential during this phase.
Vaccination efforts have also progressed, with 36,975 people vaccinated to date. However, the report highlights persistent gaps in Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) and Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) measures. Limited access to affected locations, inadequate water supply, poor waste management, and the need for additional training for frontline workers continue to pose challenges.
The IFRC warns that addressing these vulnerabilities is critical to preventing any resurgence of Ebola in the region.
Source: IFRC – Ebola: Operation Update #2 (MDRCD047), 2 November 2025