More than 70 healthcare workers have been infected with Ebola in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), as a growing outbreak puts further pressure on a health system already weakened by conflict and limited resources.
The World Health Organization (WHO) said 75 medical workers have contracted the virus since the outbreak was officially declared on May 15. Seventeen health workers have died, while the overall death toll has passed 200.
WHO officials warned that the outbreak remains serious and is spreading rapidly, with medical staff facing shortages of protective equipment, including gloves and masks.
Health System Under Pressure
Health experts believe the rare Bundibugyo strain of Ebola may have been spreading for months before authorities announced the outbreak, leaving doctors and nurses exposed.
The DRC has one of the world’s lowest numbers of healthcare workers, making it difficult to control the crisis.
International support is being increased, with countries including China and Uganda sending medical teams to assist the response.
Outbreak Continues to Grow
Congolese authorities said the outbreak has killed 232 people and infected nearly 900 others across several health zones.
Officials warned that the outbreak may not have reached its peak, especially in crowded displacement camps where poor sanitation and limited access to clean water increase the risk of transmission.
In Kigonze camp in Ituri province, dozens of people have died since early May. Residents reported symptoms linked to Ebola, including fever, vomiting and severe headaches, but some cases remain unconfirmed because of delays in testing.
Funding Shortages Raise Concerns
Aid organisations say cuts in funding for water, hygiene and sanitation programmes have made the outbreak harder to control.
The situation is particularly worrying in eastern DRC, where millions of displaced people live in overcrowded camps.
Health officials fear Ebola could spread further unless emergency support, testing and protective measures are urgently expanded.
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