WHO Warns of Rapid Expansion of Ebola Outbreak Across DR Congo, Uganda
World Health Organization Warns of Evolving Bundibugyo Virus Outbreak in DRC and Uganda
GENEVA — The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a warning regarding the rapid evolution of the Bundibugyo virus disease (BVD), a severe form of Ebola, as it spreads across the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Uganda. The outbreak has seen significant increases in both case numbers and geographic spread, placing additional strain on public health response systems.
As of the latest reports, the cumulative total stands at 695 confirmed cases and 138 fatalities across both countries. The DRC has recorded 676 cases and 136 deaths, while Uganda reports 19 confirmed cases, including two deaths. To date, at least 37 patients have recovered from the disease.
This increase in reported cases is partly attributed to enhanced testing capabilities in the DRC, which have allowed for the assessment of previously untested samples. However, WHO cautioned that the virus continues to spread widely, with cases identified in 29 health zones throughout Ituri, North Kivu, and South Kivu provinces.
“Ituri Province remains the epicenter of this outbreak, accounting for approximately 93 percent of confirmed infections,” the WHO stated in an advisory update. Health officials have pinpointed numerous hotspots, including Bunia, Rwampara, Mongbwalu, and Nyankunde health zones, which have raised concerns about potential undetected transmission as the outbreak encroaches into new areas.
The outbreak has also affected healthcare providers, with 16 health and care workers reported as infected. WHO officials noted that contact tracing has reached about 71 percent coverage, but emphasized that this remains inadequate to fully curb the outbreak.
“The situation is compounded by a complex humanitarian context characterized by mobility and displacement,” the WHO said, adding that ongoing insecurity and access issues are hindering effective surveillance and response efforts.
In Uganda, the situation appears more stable, with no new cases reported in the past six days. Most cases have been linked to imports from the DRC, alongside limited secondary transmission among contacts and healthcare workers. Confirmed cases in Uganda have primarily been identified in Kampala and Wakiso districts, with no evidence of sustained community transmission.
Out of 820 contacts identified, 409 are under active monitoring, while 394 have completed their follow-up.
The Bundibugyo virus is transmitted through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected individuals or contaminated surfaces. Fruit bats are believed to be the natural reservoir of the virus. With an incubation period of two to 21 days, initial symptoms often resemble those of other illnesses, such as fever and fatigue, complicating early detection.
Currently, there are no approved vaccines or specific treatments for BVD. Control measures rely on rapid case identification, isolation, contact tracing, safe burials, and strong community engagement.
WHO also reported that the isolation capacity in affected areas is lacking, with only 250 available beds across DRC provinces amidst rising case numbers and increased geographic spread.
In response to the crisis, health authorities in both countries, in partnership with WHO and other organizations, have ramped up surveillance efforts, cross-border coordination, and emergency response operations, while seeking additional resources to address funding shortfalls.
WHO is preparing to initiate clinical trials for potential treatments, including MBP134 and REGN3479, as well as obeldesivir for post-exposure use, following strict ethical standards and regulatory requirements.
The agency maintains a risk assessment of “very high” for the DRC and “high” for Uganda, while also categorizing neighboring countries as high risk due to the potential for population movement and cross-border trade. The overarching risk for the wider African region and globally remains low.
Despite the increasing severity of the outbreak, WHO advises against imposing travel or trade restrictions with either country. The organization stresses the importance of continued international cooperation and adherence to public health guidelines to prevent further transmission.
“WHO advises against any restrictions of travel to, or trade with, the Democratic Republic of the Congo or Uganda based on currently available information,” the agency stated, reinforcing the need for coordinated response efforts in managing the outbreak.
