Kinshasa – May 24, 2026: The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda on May 17, 2026, a global health emergency. Over 500 suspected cases and more than 130 deaths have been reported so far.
The outbreak mainly affects Ituri Province in northeastern DRC, where a rare Bundibugyo variant of the Ebola virus has been identified. This variant is particularly dangerous because there is no approved vaccine or specific treatment available.
WHO expressed deep concern that the virus is spreading rapidly, especially in urban areas and among healthcare workers. Early delays in virus identification hindered response efforts and made containment difficult.
The European Commission assesses the risk to the EU/EEA as very low due to the virus being transmitted only through direct contact with bodily fluids of symptomatic patients, and the low possibility of importation and secondary transmission within Europe.
The WHO, Africa CDC, the European Union, and the international community are working closely to prevent further spread of the virus. Response measures include enhanced surveillance, contact tracing, clinical preparedness and management, supply of support materials, community engagement, and cross-border preparedness.
The situation remains urgent, and international health authorities emphasize the need for a coordinated response to prevent further spread of the virus.
Sources
- WHO
- European Commission
- Africa CDC
- Euronews
- Le Monde
- AP News