Summary of this article
Ebola cases rise in DRC and Uganda, WHO declares emergency
CDC data shows over 1,000 suspected cases in Congo
Global screening, contact tracing, and monitoring intensified
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared the Ebola outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) on May 17, 2026, due to the geographic spread of infections in both the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda. The outbreak has been caused by one of the less common, but more severe variants of the Ebola virus, the Bundibugyo strain. The strain is currently active, with transmission occurring in several areas, along with challenges to trace contacts. Health agencies have also expressed concerns regarding the lack of surveillance in remote areas, which can impact real-time reporting of active cases.
Outbreak Situation And Response
Healthcare systems present in DRC and Uganda, along with the help from global health agencies, are trying to limit the spread of the outbreak by isolating suspected cases, conducting active surveillance of the spread and contacts, and increasing testing. There is no approved vaccine or specific treatment available for the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola virus, which is causing the outbreak. Rapid diagnosis, isolation, and response are key to breaking the chain of transmission, stated the officials.
How The Virus Spreads
Ebola is transmitted from person to person via direct contact with blood, vomit, saliva and other bodily fluids. It can also spread via surfaces and objects that are contaminated. The virus is often first spread from animals such as fruit bats and primates to humans, before spreading from person to person.
Once introduced to communities, it spreads more rapidly in areas with less-than-optimal health systems, fewer protective equipment and delayed diagnosis. Traditional caregiving and burial practices are also at risk of infection.
Cases and Latest Data
DRC has recorded 1,077 suspected cases, out of which 121 cases are confirmed, 246 suspected deaths and 17 confirmed deaths, according to data from the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In Uganda, there are 7 confirmed cases and 1 death.
Besides these areas, a new confirmed case was also recently reported in Sud-Kivu, a province adjacent to the outbreak hotspots in DRC, indicating that transmission is not confined to known Ebola hotspots in Ituri and Nord-Kivu.
However, the situation may be even worse than it appears, as some contact tracking and reporting is delayed, reported the World Health Organisation (WHO).
High-Risk Groups
Healthcare workers are at the greatest risk as they are likely to have direct contact with patients, particularly when protective equipment or PPE kits are not available. Family members and caregivers are also at risk, as they can come into contact with infected members at home.
Funeral workers may be exposed to the virus when a body is directly handled during the funeral activities. Affected communities continue to be vulnerable, as access to health services is hindered and detection is delayed.
Health centres, both local and national, have stepped up their screening of travellers coming from affected areas; screening and monitoring on arrival at airports are also being carried out.
