The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared an Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, warning that the situation could expand beyond what is currently being detected.
The outbreak, which is concentrated in eastern DRC’s Ituri province, has so far recorded about 246 suspected cases and 80 de@ths, with eight confirmed infections. Health officials say the virus involved is the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, for which there are currently no approved vaccines or specific antiviral treatments.
Cases have been reported across multiple health zones, including Bunia, Mongwalu, and Rwampara, while one infection has also been confirmed in Kinshasa after a patient reportedly travelled from the affected area. Neighbouring Uganda has also confirmed cases, including a fatal one involving a Congolese national.
WHO has raised concern over the potential for wider spread due to ongoing insecurity, population movement, and limited healthcare capacity in the region. It warned that the outbreak could be more widespread than reported and poses a risk of regional transmission to neighbouring countries.
Health authorities have advised strict isolation of confirmed cases, rapid testing, and strengthened surveillance systems in affected and neighbouring countries. However, WHO cautioned against border closures, stating that such measures are not scientifically justified and may hinder response efforts.
The agency also stressed that early symptoms include fever, fatigue, and muscle pain, which can progress to vomiting, diarrhoea, rash, and internal bleeding. Ebola spreads through direct contact with bodily fluids and is known to have a high fatality rate of about 50%.
This marks the 17th Ebola outbreak in the DRC since the virus was first identified in 1976, highlighting ongoing challenges in controlling repeated flare-ups in the region.