The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) has warned that the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has not yet reached its peak and could persist for up to a year, as health authorities struggle to contain the spread of the deadly disease.
According to reports, more than 800 cases of the rare Bundibugyo strain of Ebola have been recorded in the country, with at least 192 deaths reported. The outbreak is affecting three provinces and continues to spread rapidly, raising concerns among health responders.
The Bundibugyo strain has no approved vaccine or proven treatment, making containment efforts particularly challenging. The disease is transmitted through contact with infected bodily fluids and can remain infectious even after a victim’s death.
Speaking to reporters via video link from eastern Congo, IFRC Operations Manager Bruno Michon said it remained difficult to determine the full extent of the outbreak, but warned that the worst may still be ahead.
“It’s very difficult to know exactly to what extent the epidemic is spreading, but the peak is not behind us. We believe it is still ahead,” Michon said, according to Reuters.
He added that aid agencies fear the outbreak could continue for as long as a year before it is fully brought under control.
Health officials say the response has been hampered by inadequate treatment facilities and resistance from some communities to strict public health measures designed to limit transmission.
More than a month after the outbreak was officially declared, authorities acknowledge that the true scale of infections may still be unknown, with surveillance and case-tracking efforts facing significant obstacles in affected areas.
The Red Cross teams involved in community engagement programmes and the safe burial of Ebola victims have encountered hostility in some communities. Michon disclosed that aid workers had recently faced verbal abuse, threats and attacks while carrying out their duties.
He stressed that building trust within communities remains critical to ending the outbreak, noting that public cooperation is essential for effective disease control measures.
The latest warning comes as health agencies intensify efforts to contain the outbreak and prevent further spread across the region.
