WHO raises Ebola risk level in DR Congo as cases rise
The World Health Organization has increased its risk assessment for the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo to the highest level. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus described the situation as “especially challenging” due to the rapid spread and difficulty tracking cases. The outbreak is driven by the Bundibugyo strain, for which there are no approved vaccines or treatments. Health workers are focusing on isolating contacts and testing existing treatments to contain the virus.
Highlights
- The WHO reported 82 confirmed Ebola cases and seven confirmed deaths in the DRC, with nearly 750 suspected cases and 177 suspected deaths.
- The Bundibugyo strain is responsible for the outbreak, and there are no approved vaccines or treatments for it.
- The WHO is prioritising clinical trials for two monoclonal antibodies and the oral antiviral obeldesivir for high-risk contacts.
- Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the epidemic in the DRC is likely much larger than confirmed numbers suggest.
- The situation in Uganda is considered stable, with only two confirmed cases and one death, all linked to travel from the DRC.
