DRC Ebola outbreak: WHO says early care and oxygen can improve survival

GENEVA, September 29, 2026

Early access to treatment and reliable oxygen supplies are proving decisive for Ebola patients’ chances of survival in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the World Health Organization said on September 29, as the country battles its largest Ebola outbreak on record.

Why early treatment and oxygen matter

The current outbreak is caused by the Bundibugyo virus, a species of Ebola for which no approved vaccine or specific treatment is currently available. WHO says rapid recognition, testing, referral and optimized supportive care remain central to reducing deaths.

The agency’s clinical guidance emphasizes treatment for dehydration and shock, monitoring of vital signs, management of complications and the early use of supportive interventions. Oxygen is particularly important for patients with severe illness.

Treatment capacity expanded across affected provinces

WHO says Ebola treatment capacity in the DRC has grown from a small number of beds at the start of the outbreak to more than 1,600 beds across 50 treatment centres in seven affected provinces. The capacity is expected to rise to just over 2,000 beds.

Nearly 400 health workers have also been trained through the response, including at a training hub in Bunia. WHO has stressed that expanding beds must go together with trained staff, equipment and reliable systems for delivering oxygen.

DRC outbreak continues to spread

The outbreak remains concentrated in eastern DRC but has expanded to 63 health zones across seven provinces. As of September 23, the country had reported 7,890 confirmed cases and 3,799 deaths, according to WHO, giving a crude case-fatality ratio of 48.1 percent.

Ituri remains the epicentre, with more than 6,000 confirmed cases. Conflict, displacement, insecurity and weak access to basic services continue to delay diagnosis, referral and treatment in several affected communities.

Related Credent TV coverage

• Chyawanprash Health Benefits-
• Will I Ever Run Again? Navigating Life After a Heart Attack
• Navigating the Journey of Open Heart Surgery in Infants