The World Health Organization has declared the Ebola outbreak linked to the Bundibugyo virus strain in Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, raising fresh fears about the disease’s spread across the region.
The announcement was made by Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus after consultations with health authorities in both countries and a review of scientific and epidemiological evidence.
While describing the situation as serious, the global health body clarified that the outbreak has not met the threshold to be classified as a pandemic emergency under international health regulations.
WHO said the decision was influenced by the risk of cross-border transmission and the possible impact on travel and trade, while commending both governments for their transparency and response efforts.
As of May 16, health authorities had recorded eight confirmed Ebola cases, 246 suspected infections and 80 suspected deaths in Ituri Province of DR Congo, particularly across Bunia, Rwampara and Mongbwalu health zones.
The virus has also crossed borders. Uganda confirmed two laboratory cases in Kampala, including one fatality involving travellers from Congo. Another confirmed case was reported in Kinshasa involving a traveller returning from Ituri.
WHO warned that the outbreak may be wider than currently documented, citing rising suspected cases, high positivity rates and unusual clusters of deaths in communities across Ituri and neighbouring North Kivu.
The situation has become more concerning following reports that at least four healthcare workers died under conditions linked to viral haemorrhagic fever, fuelling fears of infections spreading within health facilities.
“There are significant uncertainties to the true number of infected persons and geographic spread,” WHO noted, warning that insecurity, population displacement and weak healthcare systems could worsen the outbreak.
Adding to the concern is the absence of approved vaccines or treatments specifically designed for the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola.
Tedros said an emergency committee would now be convened to recommend further measures and guide member states on how to contain the outbreak before it spreads further.
