The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially declared the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). This declaration comes after confirmed cases of the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus were detected in multiple locations across both countries, including their capital cities.
WHO Director-General's Announcement
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus made the announcement following consultations with health authorities in the affected nations. He stated that while the outbreak does not yet qualify as a pandemic emergency, it constitutes a significant global health threat.
Current Situation in DRC and Uganda
The outbreak is centered in DRC's eastern Ituri province, where approximately 246 suspected cases and 80 deaths have been reported. The WHO warned that the true scale of the outbreak may be larger than currently detected, with a high risk of local and regional spread.
In Uganda, a Congolese citizen died from Ebola, and their body was repatriated to DRC. Additionally, a laboratory confirmed an Ebola case in the eastern city of Goma, which is currently under the control of M23 rebels, according to AFP news agency.
Factors Increasing Spread Risk
The WHO highlighted several factors that increase the risk of the outbreak spreading further: the ongoing security situation and humanitarian crisis in DRC, high population mobility, the urban location of hotspots, and the large number of informal healthcare facilities in the region. Countries bordering DRC are considered high risk due to trade and travel links.
Recommended Measures
The WHO advised DRC and Uganda to establish emergency operation centers to monitor cases, conduct contact tracing, and implement infection-prevention measures. Confirmed cases should be immediately isolated and treated until two Bundibugyo virus-specific tests, conducted at least 48 hours apart, return negative. For bordering countries, enhanced surveillance and health reporting are recommended.
Travel and Trade Restrictions
The WHO advised against closing borders or restricting travel and trade, stating that such measures are usually implemented out of fear and have no scientific basis.
Dr. Tedros warned of significant uncertainties regarding the true number of infected persons and the geographic spread of the outbreak, urging global vigilance and coordinated response efforts.
