The Ebola outbreak in DR Congo has reached North Ubangi province, near the border with the Central African Republic (CAR), according to two health officials.
The officials reported two cases in the province, making it the eighth area at provincial level affected by the outbreak.
According to Africanews, citing Reuters, Congolese authorities had not officially announced the new cases as of Thursday, October 15.
The development has raised concerns about the virus spreading to additional communities near international borders.
Ebola cases reported in North Ubangi
Two health officials told Reuters that tests had identified Ebola infections in North Ubangi province.
The cases followed reports of several suspected deaths in the Wapinda health area, near the border with Bas-Uele province.
As a result, health teams carried out tests to investigate the suspected infections.
However, authorities have not released further details about the two reported cases.
The new reports suggest that the outbreak is expanding beyond areas previously affected.
Ebola outbreak causes thousands of deaths
DR Congo declared the current Ebola outbreak on May 15, 2026.
Since then, the country has recorded more than 9,000 cases and 4,441 deaths, according to figures reported on Wednesday, October 14.
The outbreak involves the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus.
The strain can cause severe illness and may be fatal.
Meanwhile, health authorities continue to track infections and investigate suspected cases.
WHO prepares for Ebola vaccine trial
The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported plans for a vaccine trial targeting the Bundibugyo strain.
According to the report, the first clinical trial in DR Congo is expected to begin by the end of October.
There is currently no licensed vaccine specifically approved for the Bundibugyo strain.
However, patients can receive supportive medical care, which can improve their chances of survival.
Early detection and treatment remain important in reducing deaths and limiting transmission.
Ebola cases also reported in Uganda and Kenya
The outbreak has also affected other East African countries.
Uganda previously recorded cases but declared itself Ebola-free in August.
Meanwhile, Kenya announced a second Ebola case on Wednesday, October 14.
Health officials said the second patient was a relative of the country’s first reported patient, who died on October 5.
These developments have increased concerns about cross-border transmission.
DR Congo faces growing Ebola challenge
The latest reports highlight the difficulties of containing Ebola across several provinces.
Ebola spreads through direct contact with infected bodily fluids or contaminated materials. It does not spread through ordinary airborne transmission.
Therefore, health authorities continue to stress the importance of early diagnosis, safe medical care and contact tracing.
The reported cases in North Ubangi add to the challenges facing DR Congo as it works to contain the outbreak and protect communities near its borders.