The World Health Organisation (WHO) has classified the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda as a “public health emergency of international concern.” The outbreak, linked to the Bundibugyo virus, has not been classified as a pandemic emergency, as stated by the WHO on the social media platform X.
The Director-General of WHO commended the leadership of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda for their efforts in taking necessary actions to control the situation. He also appreciated their transparency in evaluating the risk posed by the outbreak to other countries, enabling global preparedness measures.
In making this determination, the Director-General considered information from both countries, scientific principles, available evidence, and other relevant data. Factors assessed included the risk to human health, potential international disease spread, and the impact on international travel.
According to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, hundreds of suspected cases have been reported in Ituri Province. Preliminary tests by the National Institute of Biomedical Research confirmed the virus in 13 out of 20 samples, with about 246 suspected cases and 65 deaths recorded, particularly in Mongwalu and Rwampara.
Africa CDC has highlighted the high risk of further spread due to urban settings, population movement, mining activities, insecurity, and proximity to Uganda and South Sudan. An urgent meeting is scheduled to enhance cross-border coordination, surveillance, and response efforts with health authorities from the affected countries and international partners.
