WHO Assesses Regional Ebola Risk as High, Global Risk as Low

May 20, 2026

76 min

May 20, 2026 16:30

Risk of Ebola spread is high regionally but low globally, WHO says

## Ebola Outbreak in Congo and Uganda

The World Health Organization (WHO) has assessed the Ebola outbreak in Congo and Uganda as posing a high risk at the regional level, though the global threat remains low. The outbreak, attributed to the Bundibugyo strain of the virus, has resulted in over 130 suspected deaths and is expected to continue for at least two more months.

## Public Health Emergency Declared

WHO has declared the situation a public health emergency of international concern, necessitating a coordinated global response. The organization expressed alarm over the rapid spread of the virus, which went undetected for weeks due to initial testing for a different Ebola strain.

## Challenges in Containment

Efforts to contain the virus are complicated by a lack of approved treatments for the Bundibugyo strain. In Congo's Ituri and North Kivu provinces, 51 cases have been confirmed, with two additional cases in Uganda. The outbreak has led to increased prices for protective gear like face masks and disinfectants.

## Aid and Response Efforts

International aid is being mobilized, with shipments of an experimental vaccine expected from the US and UK. However, the response is hindered by limited resources and ongoing security issues in eastern Congo, where armed groups operate.

## Local Impact and Measures

In affected areas, schools and churches remain open, but residents are taking precautions. Health facilities are overwhelmed, with reports of full isolation wards. The US has pledged additional funding to support emergency clinics, aiming to bolster the response to the outbreak.

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