Why the Ebola surge in the Democratic Republic of Congo alarms international health authorities
The Democratic Republic of Congo is facing a severe Ebola outbreak that has prompted the World Health Organization to declare a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. This outbreak is particularly alarming due to its intensity and the recent emergence of cases in Ituri Province, a region affected by violence and population movements. Health authorities have reported 105 deaths and nearly 395 suspected cases, although actual numbers may be higher due to underreporting.
- ▪The DRC has experienced 16 Ebola outbreaks since the virus was discovered in 1976.
- ▪The WHO declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern on May 17, 2026.
- ▪The outbreak has been exacerbated by violence and population movements in Ituri Province.
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A visitor has their temperature taken by a healthcare worker using an infrared thermometer before entering Kyeshero Hospital, as part of Ebola prevention measures, in Goma, on May 18, 2026. JOSPIN MWISHA/AFP The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has been struck by an unusually severe Ebola outbreak. While the country has experienced 16 outbreaks since the virus was first discovered on its territory in 1976, the current situation was considered alarming enough by the World Health Organization (WHO) to trigger a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) on Sunday, May 17. This is the second-highest alert level under the International Health Regulations since their reform in 2024.
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