The World Health Organization has warned that a fast-spreading Ebola outbreak in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo and neighbouring Uganda is outpacing response efforts. There have been at least 220 suspected deaths reported as the disease spreads.
WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated that the epidemic is likely to get worse before it gets better. While operations are being scaled up, he urged neighbouring countries to take immediate action, warning that those bordering the Democratic Republic of Congo are at high risk.
Responders are currently playing catch-up due to delays in detecting cases. Containment efforts have been further complicated by war and attacks on medical facilities in the conflict-hit Ituri province. Additionally, the outbreak involves the Bundibugyo strain of the virus, which remains unchecked by vaccines.