WHO declares Ebola outbreak in DR Congo an international emergency
The World Health Organization has declared the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo a public health emergency of international concern due to rising cases and cross-border spread. The outbreak, caused by the Bundibugyo virus, has led to 246 suspected cases and 80 deaths, with cases now confirmed in Uganda. There are no approved vaccines or treatments for this strain, and the WHO warns of potential wider regional transmission.
- ▪The outbreak is centered in Ituri province, with cases reported in Bunia, Mongwalu, and Rwampara.
- ▪Eight laboratory-confirmed cases of the Bundibugyo virus have been identified, and one case has been confirmed in Kinshasa.
- ▪Two confirmed cases have been reported in Uganda, including a Congolese citizen who died and was repatriated.
- ▪The WHO emphasized that travel and trade restrictions are not scientifically justified and should not be implemented.
- ▪Security challenges, high population mobility, and informal healthcare facilities increase the risk of further spread.
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WHO declares Ebola outbreak in DR Congo a global health emergencyJust nowShareSaveAdd as preferred on GoogleThomas Mukhwana,Africa correspondent, NairobiandYang TianReutersHospitals in DR Congo have been treating patients in recent daysThe World Health Organization (WHO) has declared an Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo a public health emergency of international concern.The agency said the outbreak in DR Congo's eastern Ituri province, which has seen around 246 suspected cases and 80 deaths reported, does not meet the criteria of a pandemic emergency.But it warned it could potentially be "a much larger outbreak" than what is currently being detected and reported, with significant risk of local and regional spread.The current strain of Ebola is caused by the Bundibugyo…
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