The Ebola epidemic in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has now infected 5,515 people and claimed 2,642 lives, according to the latest government figures released on Sunday. The provinces of Ituri and North Kivu reported 51 new infections, underscoring the ongoing spread of the virus.

This devastating outbreak, declared in mid-May, marks the DRC's 17th Ebola epidemic. The World Health Organization (WHO) has designated it a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, its highest alert level, which also extends to neighboring Uganda. The current trajectory suggests the epidemic could surpass the 2014–2016 West African outbreak, which remains the deadliest on record with over 11,000 fatalities.

Adding to the gravity of the situation, the case fatality rate in the DRC has dramatically increased. It has climbed from approximately 20 percent in early June to nearly 48 percent, meaning almost half of those infected are now succumbing to the disease. Despite this grim statistic, contact tracing efforts have seen significant improvement, rising from 30 percent in June to over 85 percent.

The fight against Ebola has also taken a heavy toll on healthcare workers. Approximately 160 health workers have contracted the virus, and tragically, about 45 have died, as reported by the WHO. Efforts to contain the outbreak are severely hampered by a confluence of challenges, including ongoing armed conflict in affected regions, population displacement, attacks on medical personnel and facilities, a mobile workforce, and a lack of essential infrastructure.

Pope Leo has appealed for urgent international action to help contain the escalating epidemic and save lives. His call highlights the critical need for a coordinated global response to support the DRC's efforts in combating the virus.

Currently, there is no approved vaccine or treatment specifically for the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, which is less common than other types of the virus. However, the WHO has committed to providing 70,000 doses of the Ervebo vaccine, which is licensed for Ebola and has proven effective in past outbreaks. Early animal trial data suggests it may offer some protection against the Bundibugyo strain. A shipment of 16,250 doses arrived in the DRC on Friday.

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus and other officials have emphasized that the current response needs to be scaled up significantly, potentially two to threefold, to effectively contain the outbreak and reach all affected areas. They have also called for enhanced support and protection for frontline health workers, including provision of protective equipment, timely payments, and access to rapid diagnosis and quality supportive care.

Public health experts have expressed grave concern, with one consultant noting that the outbreak is "getting out of hand." Weak infection control measures and a lack of trust between authorities and affected communities have been identified as key factors contributing to the continued transmission. The situation remains critical, demanding immediate and robust international support.