WHO Declares Ebola Outbreak in DRC & Uganda a Global Emergency
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda a global health emergency. This decision, announced today, reflects the escalating concern surrounding the spread of the Bundibugyo virus.
According to the WHO, the outbreak has resulted in 80 suspected deaths in the DRC. Confirmed cases have also been reported in Uganda, including within the capital city of Kinshasa. The declaration allows the WHO to mobilise additional resources and expertise to support the affected countries in containing the virus.
The Bundibugyo virus is a rare strain of Ebola. This is the fifth time the WHO has declared an Ebola outbreak a global health emergency, a designation that signifies the event poses a significant risk to international public health and requires a coordinated international response. Previous declarations were made during outbreaks in West Africa (2014-2016), DRC (2018), DRC (2019-2020), and Guinea (2021).
The WHO is working closely with the governments of the DRC and Uganda to strengthen surveillance, improve case management, and implement measures to prevent further transmission. Public health officials are emphasising the importance of early detection and rapid response to control the outbreak and protect vulnerable populations. Further updates will be provided as the situation evolves.
