Last Ebola Patient in Democratic Republic of the Congo Discharged, Outbreak Nears End

Strategic Insights -

A significant milestone has been achieved in the ongoing efforts to combat the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, as the last patient has been discharged. This development marks the beginning of a 42-day countdown to declaring the outbreak over, provided no further cases are confirmed. The recovery of the last patient is a testament to the strong partnership between the Ministry of Health, World Health Organization (WHO), and other partners, who have worked tirelessly to implement effective response measures.

Key Takeaways:

  • The last Ebola patient in the Democratic Republic of the Congo was discharged on October 20, 2025, marking a crucial milestone in the efforts to end the outbreak.
  • A total of 19 patients have recovered from the disease, with no new cases reported since September 25.
  • The outbreak has resulted in 64 cases (53 confirmed and 11 probable) since it was declared on September 4 in Bulape health zone, Kasai Province.
  • WHO deployed multidisciplinary teams to strengthen surveillance, clinical care, infection prevention and control, logistics, community engagement, and other key response measures.
  • A 32-bed Ebola treatment centre was set up in record time, equipped with a two-bed Intensive Infectious Disease Treatment Module (IIDTM).
  • Over 35,000 people have been vaccinated against Ebola in Bulape.
  • Dr. Mohamed Janabi, WHO Regional Director for Africa, attributed the recovery to strong partnership, national expertise, and determination.

Statistics:

  • 19 patients have recovered from the disease as of October 20, 2025.
  • No new cases have been reported since September 25.
  • A total of 64 cases (53 confirmed and 11 probable) have been reported since the outbreak was declared on September 4 in Bulape health zone, Kasai Province.
  • Over 35,000 people have been vaccinated against Ebola in Bulape.
  • WHO deployed multidisciplinary teams to strengthen various response measures.
  • The outbreak has resulted in a significant mobilization of resources, with a 32-bed Ebola treatment centre set up in record time.

Sources:

  • M2 PressWIRE, "Last Ebola patient in Democratic Republic of the Congo discharged" (October 20, 2025)
  • World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Africa
  • Ministry of Health, Democratic Republic of the Congo