Yasmin Bilal
The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda continues to develop, with health authorities maintaining heightened surveillance as transmission persists in parts of Central Africa.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has classified the outbreak as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, citing the risk of further regional spread due to ongoing cross-border movement and limited access to affected communities.
The outbreak, which involves the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus, has been concentrated in eastern DRC, particularly in remote and conflict-affected areas where response operations remain difficult. Uganda has also recorded confirmed cases linked to individuals who travelled from affected regions across the border.
Health officials report that new suspected cases continue to be investigated, with laboratory testing ruling out a number of alerts while confirming ongoing transmission in specific hotspots. Case numbers remain fluid as field teams expand surveillance and trace contacts.
In Uganda, cases have been identified mainly in border districts, prompting intensified screening at entry points and closer monitoring of communities at risk. Health teams are working to isolate cases quickly and prevent further community transmission.
The situation has been complicated by insecurity in parts of eastern DRC, where armed activity and poor infrastructure continue to hinder access for health workers. This has made it more difficult to conduct contact tracing, deliver treatment, and carry out safe burials, all of which are key to containing Ebola outbreaks.
The Bundibugyo strain is less frequently seen compared to other Ebola variants but remains highly dangerous, with a significant risk of severe illness and death. While supportive treatment can improve survival, there is currently no widely approved vaccine specifically for this strain, although experimental vaccines and therapies are under evaluation.
The WHO has assessed the global risk as low at this stage, provided that containment measures are sustained and cross-border coordination remains strong. However, it has warned that regional risk remains elevated due to population movement and gaps in surveillance.
International partners, including Africa CDC and other health agencies, are supporting national response efforts through technical assistance, treatment centres and public health awareness campaigns.
Health authorities in both countries continue to urge communities to report symptoms early, avoid unsafe burial practices, and cooperate with response teams as efforts continue to bring the outbreak under control.