KINSHASA, DR CONGO / RankWire.AI / – As the Ebola outbreak in Bundibugyo expands, the Democratic Republic of the Congo is set to receive 70,000 Ervebo Ebola vaccine doses. Congolese officials reported a total of 5,208 confirmed cases and 2,476 fatalities by August 18. The outbreak now spans 56 health zones across six eastern and northeastern provinces. Authorities also documented 1,115 recoveries, while 730 patients remain under isolation or hospital treatment.
Following a request from the government, the International Coordinating Group on Vaccine Provision approved the release of doses from the global Ebola stockpile. WHO stated that 20,000 doses are designated for a Phase 3 clinical trial targeting Bundibugyo virus disease, while the remaining 50,000 doses will be administered to frontline health workers as part of current vaccination protocols. The allocation, announced on Aug. 20, was welcomed by WHO and Africa CDC.
Ervebo holds approval for use during Ebola outbreaks caused by Ebola virus, previously known as Zaire ebolavirus. However, it is not specifically licensed for Bundibugyo virus disease. While laboratory and animal studies suggest potential cross-protection, the effectiveness in humans remains unconfirmed. The upcoming clinical trial aims to evaluate the vaccine’s impact during the outbreak and generate evidence to support public health decisions. WHO emphasizes that recipients should be informed about known risks, potential benefits, and current limitations of the vaccine.
Outbreak now affects six provinces in Congo
The outbreak was first identified in the Mongbwalu health zone of Ituri Province, with confirmation by Congolese authorities in May. Since then, cases have spread to North Kivu, South Kivu, Haut-Uele, Tshopo, and Bas-Uele. By August 12, WHO had recorded 4,665 cases and 2,184 deaths across 54 health zones, but subsequent national data raised these figures to 5,208 cases, 2,476 deaths, and 56 affected zones. The current case fatality rate stands at 47.5%.
WHO has characterized this as the largest Ebola outbreak ever recorded in DR Congo. The organization also reports intense virus transmission across interconnected regions, with ongoing increases in both cases and fatalities. Factors such as insecurity, population displacement, and extensive movement along roads and trade routes have hindered surveillance efforts and patient access. Response teams are scaling up treatment facilities, enhancing surveillance and contact tracing, and supporting safe burials. Congolese health authorities have also expanded patient care capabilities in affected zones.
The vaccine deployment complements ongoing response and research efforts
Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, allocated $7 million to facilitate the shipment of the 70,000 Ervebo doses. An additional $6 million from Gavi’s First Response Fund is designated for routine immunization efforts and preparations for Ebola vaccination. The global Ebola vaccine stockpile operates via the International Coordinating Group, which is supported by several partners including WHO, UNICEF, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, and Médecins Sans Frontières. Gavi provides funding to maintain the vaccine reserve.
On May 15, DR Congo declared the outbreak after laboratory confirmation of Bundibugyo virus disease. WHO designated it a public health emergency of international concern on May 17. Since there is no licensed vaccine or specific treatment for Bundibugyo virus disease, the focus remains on supportive care and early detection. WHO continues to assist with surveillance, clinical management, supply distribution, contact tracing, and community engagement in the affected regions. The allocation of 70,000 doses enhances vaccination efforts and research alongside ongoing public health measures.