WHO declares global health emergency over Ebola outbreak

MANILA, Philippines — The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the Ebola disease caused by the Bundibugyo virus in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Uganda a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, citing rising cases, suspected deaths and confirmed cross-border transmission.

In a statement issued yesterday, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the decision followed consultations with affected states and a review of available epidemiological and scientific data under the International Health Regulations.

“The Ebola disease caused by Bundibugyo virus in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda constitutes a public health emergency of international concern, but does not meet the criteria of pandemic emergency,” the statement read.

WHO said the outbreak meets the threshold for an international emergency due to its unusual and rapidly evolving nature, geographic spread and the potential for further transmission across borders.

As of May 16, health authorities reported eight laboratory-confirmed cases, 246 suspected cases, and 80 suspected deaths in Ituri province in eastern DRC, across multiple health zones including Bunia, Rwampara and Mongbwalu. Additional confirmed infections have been detected in Kampala, Uganda, including cases among travelers from the DRC.

A confirmed case was also reported in Kinshasa, further raising concern over wider domestic spread.

WHO noted that “unusual clusters of community deaths with symptoms compatible with Bundibugyo virus disease have been reported across several health zones in Ituri,” alongside suspected infections among health care workers, signaling possible gaps in infection prevention and control measures.

The global health body warned that the true scale of the outbreak may be significantly underreported, citing “significant uncertainties to the true number of infected persons and geographic spread” and evidence of a high positivity rate among tested samples.

WHO also highlighted the vulnerability of the region, pointing to insecurity, population movement and strained health systems, which could accelerate transmission.

“The event constitutes a public health risk to other States Parties through the international spread of disease,” the statement said, noting confirmed cross-border transmission into Uganda within 24 hours of detection.

The organization said it will convene an Emergency Committee to issue further guidance and temporary recommendations for affected countries.

WHO urged the governments of DRC and Uganda to immediately activate emergency coordination systems, strengthen surveillance and laboratory capacity, expand contact tracing and reinforce infection prevention measures in health facilities.

It also called for enhanced risk communication at the community level, emphasizing the role of local leaders in identifying cases and supporting public awareness efforts.

On movement restrictions, WHO cautioned against travel bans, stating that such measures are not recommended, but advised strict monitoring of confirmed cases and contacts.

“Confirmed cases should immediately be isolated and treated… with no national or international travel until two Bundibugyo virus-specific diagnostic tests conducted at least 48 hours apart are negative,” the agency said.

WHO further stressed the need for cross-border coordination, warning that neighboring countries remain at high risk due to trade and travel links with eastern DRC.

The agency said no approved vaccines or specific therapeutics currently exist for Bundibugyo virus disease, underscoring the urgency of clinical trials and research efforts.

Safe burial practices, improved hospital infection control, and expanded treatment centers were also listed among key priorities to contain the outbreak.

WHO noted that it will continue to monitor the situation closely as it works with national governments and international partners to limit further spread of the virus.