WHO and Africa CDC leaders said the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo could be stopped through leadership and public health measures. One hundred days after the declaration, 5,290 confirmed cases and 2,516 deaths had been reported across 56 health zones by 21 August 2026. The illness is caused by Bundibugyo virus, making this the second-largest Ebola outbreak recorded. It was also spreading faster than previous outbreaks.
Leaders highlighted early detection, contact tracing, treatment, and safe, dignified burials. They stressed protecting frontline workers, reaching affected areas, securing reliable funding, and building community trust. Together, these measures offer a practical route to stopping transmission in affected communities. The reported figures describe the situation at that time, not a final total. Success depends on cooperation between communities and health teams. Clear communication can encourage timely reporting and safer choices during the response.