WHO Raises Alarm Over Rapid Ebola Outbreak in Africa

May 19, 2026

72 min

May 19, 2026 12:32

WHO alarmed by ‘scale and speed’ of Ebola outbreak

## WHO's Growing Concerns

The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed serious concern over the escalating Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda. The outbreak, which has already claimed 131 lives, is spreading rapidly with over 500 suspected cases.

## International Emergency Declared

The WHO has declared the situation an international public health emergency. The outbreak has crossed borders, with confirmed cases in Uganda, including one fatality. The Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, involved in this outbreak, currently has no approved vaccine or specific treatment.

## Challenges in Containment

The epicenter of the outbreak is in Ituri province, a region troubled by conflict and poor healthcare infrastructure. These conditions hinder efforts to isolate patients and trace contacts. The area’s status as a gold-mining hub also contributes to high cross-border movement, raising fears of further spread.

## Efforts to Combat the Outbreak

WHO is urgently evaluating experimental vaccines and treatments. Over 40 experts and 12 tonnes of medical supplies have been deployed to the region. Meanwhile, the United States has started screening travelers from affected areas and has suspended visa services temporarily.

## Historical Context

Ebola, first identified in 1976, has caused over 15,000 deaths in Africa. The current outbreak is the 17th in Congo, following a major epidemic from 2018 to 2020 that resulted in nearly 2,300 deaths. The Bundibugyo strain has previously appeared in Uganda and Congo, with mortality rates between 30% and 50%.

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