The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is spreading to new areas, raising concerns over the country’s capacity to contain the disease.

According to the WHO, 676 confirmed cases and 136 deaths have been recorded since the outbreak was declared on May 15. An additional 119 suspected cases are under investigation, while 32 patients have recovered.

The outbreak, caused by the rare Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus, is centred in Ituri Province but has now spread to North Kivu and South Kivu provinces. Health officials say new cases are being detected in additional health zones almost daily, indicating wider community transmission.

WHO epidemiologist Olivier le Polain said contact tracing has improved but remains below the level required to effectively control the outbreak. He also warned that the current capacity of 250 isolation beds is insufficient as infections continue to rise.

The outbreak has also crossed into neighbouring Uganda, where 19 confirmed cases, including two deaths, have been reported.

Health authorities are calling for increased surveillance, more treatment facilities and greater international support to prevent further spread of the virus.