The Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) continues to impact the Bulape Health Zone in Kasai Province. However, there are promising signs of a decline in transmission, with only seven new cases reported in the latest update. Of these, six were confirmed cases, and one was a probable case that was retrospectively validated. These cases were identified across three health areas: Bulape (n=4), Mpianga (n=2), and Dikolo (n=1). Tragically, seven additional deaths have occurred, all linked to the new and previously hospitalized cases. The fatalities were spread across the health areas of Dikolo (n=3), Bulape (n=2), Mpianga (n=1), and Bulape Communitaire (n=1).
As of September 28, 2025, the total number of EVD cases in the Bulape Health Zone has reached 64, including 53 confirmed and 11 probable. The outbreak has resulted in 42 deaths, representing a case fatality rate (CFR) of 65.6%. Notably, five confirmed cases have been reported among healthcare workers, with three of these resulting in fatalities. Despite the significant challenges, the outbreak remains limited to six health areas within Bulape Health Zone, out of the 21 areas in total.
The affected population ranges in age from newborns to individuals aged 65. Among the total cases, females account for a majority, with 57.8% of cases (37), followed by children aged 0-9 years (25%) and adults aged 20-29 years (23.4%). The highest proportion of deaths has also been seen in females (57.1%) and children under 10 years (31%). Notably, the case fatality rate is slightly higher in males (66.7%) than in females (64.9%).
In recent weeks, the number of new cases among children has dropped significantly, with only two new cases in children under 10 reported. The situation has shown a positive trend, as the CFR has decreased over time, primarily due to improvements in case surveillance and management. Early case detection, isolation protocols, and high-quality medical treatment have been key to controlling the outbreak.
As of the latest update, there are 1,787 contacts under active follow-up, with 97.1% of them having been seen in the last 24 hours. Treatment efforts have also shown success, with nine individuals having recovered and been discharged, while 13 others are still undergoing treatment. The situation remains under close monitoring as authorities continue their efforts to combat the outbreak.
