The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has reported 1,307 confirmed Ebola virus disease cases, including 377 deaths, as authorities intensified efforts to contain the outbreak through stricter public health measures.

Government data released Monday showed that, as of Sunday, 180 patients had recovered, while 615 others were receiving treatment or medical care. The case fatality rate stood at 28.8 percent, while health officials had successfully traced 81.3 percent of identified contacts.

Congo sees sharpest daily rise in Ebola cases since outbreak began

To curb transmission, the government has banned mass gatherings in the capital, Kinshasa, and the provinces of Tshopo, Haut-Uele and Bas-Uele, according to local media citing a circular issued by the Ministry of Interior. The restrictions, announced by Interior Minister Jacquemain Shabani to provincial governors, cover political rallies, public marches and other events to reduce physical contact and slow the spread of the virus.

President Felix Tshisekedi said a comprehensive Ebola response plan worth US$319 million had been prepared, with emergency funds already released to support field operations, contain the outbreak and save lives.

In his Independence Day address, Tshisekedi urged citizens to follow health guidelines, report suspected infections and reject misinformation, describing Ebola as "a health emergency" requiring responsibility and solidarity.

The DRC declared the current Ebola outbreak in mid-May. Health authorities say response efforts continue to face challenges from community transmission, population movement and limited access to some affected areas.