The World Health Organization has declared a public health emergency of international concern following an Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda. Health authorities report that the outbreak is caused by the Bundibugyo virus, a rare variant of the disease that currently has no approved vaccines or therapeutics. While reports on the toll vary, the WHO has indicated there are approximately 600 suspected cases and 139 suspected deaths, with 51 cases confirmed in Congo's Ituri and North Kivu provinces. Cases have been recorded in Bunia, Goma, Mongbwalu, Butembo, and Nyakunde.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed deep concern over the scale and speed of the epidemic. He stated that the risk of spread is high at national and regional levels but remains low at a global level. An emergency committee has been convened in Geneva to advise on recommendations and discuss vaccine options. Congolese Health Minister Samuel Roger Kamba confirmed the suspected death toll has risen sharply, as details emerged regarding the government's delayed response to the crisis.
The virus has spread beyond the Democratic Republic of Congo, with Uganda reporting two confirmed cases in Kampala, including one death. Additionally, a US citizen tested positive and was transferred to Germany. The WHO suggests the outbreak likely began a couple of months ago, and experts believe the first death may have been followed by a super-spreader event. Officials warn that the number of cases is expected to continue increasing and that the outbreak could last at least another two months.