Ebola Crisis Deepens in Eastern Congo as Deaths Rise in Displacement Camp

A deadly health crisis is unfolding in a displacement camp in northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo, where at least 30 people have died since the beginning of May. 

Camp officials say the number of deaths represents an unprecedented surge, with Ebola confirmed among some victims, raising fears that the virus may be spreading rapidly within the vulnerable population.

The affected camp, located in the conflict-hit Ituri province, is home to thousands of people who have fled violence. 

Health workers say overcrowding, poor sanitation, limited access to clean water and difficulties carrying out testing and contact tracing are making the response more challenging. 

The wider Ebola outbreak in eastern Congo has already affected multiple provinces, with health authorities reporting hundreds of confirmed cases and more than 100 deaths. 

The World Health Organization has warned that the situation is being worsened by ongoing conflict, population movement and mistrust toward health teams in some communities. 

Aid organisations are calling for urgent support as they work to improve surveillance, isolate cases and prevent further spread, especially in overcrowded displacement camps where diseases can move quickly.