Ebola Outbreak in Congo Leaves 160 Dead, 671 Suspected Cases

An Ebola outbreak in Congo has killed 160 people and left 671 others suspected of infection, underscoring the scale of the latest public health emergency in the country. The outbreak began in Ituri in northeastern Congo and is the country’s 17th recorded Ebola epidemic since 1976. Congo’s Health Ministry said laboratory tests have confirmed 64 cases and 6 deaths. The World Health Organization said it has recorded about 600 suspected cases and more than 130 suspected deaths, warning that the real toll may be higher. In neighboring Uganda, no new infections have been detected beyond the two previously confirmed cases involving Congo nationals. Health authorities continue to monitor the cross-border situation as the outbreak remains active in northeastern Congo.