The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is battling its fastest-growing Ebola outbreak on record, with at least 930 deaths and 2,344 confirmed cases of the Bundibugyo strain since May 15, 2026. The World Health Organization (WHO) warns the actual number could be two to four times higher due to undetected infections in conflict zones.

Neighboring countries are on high alert. Uganda, Rwanda, and Zambia have intensified screening at border crossings, trained frontline health workers, and activated emergency response plans. Dr. Naeem Dalal of the Zambia National Public Health Institute said disinfection, mandatory masks, and handwashing are being enforced nationwide.

In Uganda, three western districts—Kisoro, Kanungu, and Rukungiri—are considered at highest risk. Dr. Beda Senkware of Kabale Referral Hospital warned on national television that the risk of Ebola transmission is very high in these areas.

The East African Community (EAC) has agreed on a coordinated regional response. Secretary General Stephen Mbundi stated that partner states are working with Africa CDC, WHO, and others to strengthen surveillance, laboratory testing, and rapid response capacities.

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus called the outbreak the third largest on record and urged international donors to close a funding gap of over $400 million. He emphasized that insecurity in eastern DRC is hampering containment efforts.

Professor Aileen Marty of Florida International University noted that violence has led to treatment centers being burned down, discouraging health workers and allowing the virus to spread further. She stressed that preparedness in neighboring countries is critical to preventing regional transmission.

Source: www.dw.com