WHO Declares Ebola Outbreak in DRC and Uganda a Global Health Emergency

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda a public health emergency of international concern. This designation comes as the virus, identified as the Bundibugyo strain, shows signs of spreading beyond the initial outbreak zones.

As of Saturday, the DRC had reported 246 suspected cases and 80 suspected deaths in its Ituri province, with cases confirmed in Bunia, Rwampara, and Mongbwalu health zones. One case was also confirmed in Goma, according to reports from M23 rebels. The outbreak is considered “extraordinary” by the WHO, as there are currently no approved specific treatments or vaccines for the Bundibugyo virus strain, unlike previous outbreaks of the Ebola-Zaire strain.

The risk of international spread is significant, with cases already documented in Uganda. Two laboratory-confirmed cases, including one fatality, were reported in Kampala, with the individuals having traveled from the DRC.

The WHO is advising countries to activate their emergency management protocols, implement cross-border screening, and monitor internal roads. However, the organization urges against border closures and travel restrictions, which could lead to informal and unmonitored crossings. Instead, confirmed cases should be isolated, contacts monitored daily, and international travel by individuals with potential exposure should be restricted for 21 days. The dense tropical forests of the DRC are known reservoirs for the Ebola virus, which spreads through direct contact with bodily fluids of infected individuals or contaminated materials. Health officials are working to contain the outbreak and prevent further international spread.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)