Ebola Surge in DRC: Confirmed Ebola cases in the Democratic Republic of the Congo jumped to 515 with 91 deaths, while 12 recoveries were reported; officials warn transmission could rise further as contact follow-up remains far below targets and treatment-center supplies and infection-control materials are still stretched. Health System Strain: Doctors and nurses in Ituri say they’re treating patients with little protection and limited testing access, describing fear inside facilities as outbreaks outpace diagnostics. Community Mistrust & Rumors: In Mongbwalu, residents reject the scientific explanation for Ebola, fueling arson attacks and dangerous misinformation about how the virus spreads. Conflict Hits Response: Rebel attacks in eastern DRC, including killings around Beni, are disrupting care and slowing Ebola control efforts. WHO Push for Better Response: WHO leaders say the outbreak had a head start but testing is improving; they also urge countries to reconsider travel bans that may reduce transparency and trust. China Steps In: China has dispatched medical experts to Kinshasa with protective gear and lab supplies, as debate grows over how much more Beijing will do. New Prevention Trial: WHO recommendations include a trial of a 10-day post-exposure pill strategy to protect people after exposure, using an experimental antiviral. Global Ripple Effects: A DRC World Cup warm-up match in Spain was canceled over Ebola concerns, showing how the outbreak is disrupting travel and major events. Tech & Supply Chains: Separate from the outbreak, DRC approved higher royalties for strategic minerals like lithium and cobalt, underscoring the country’s growing role in critical technology supply chains.