The World Health Organization (World Health Organization) says the number of suspected Ebola cases and deaths continues to rise, warning that the outbreak is likely larger than currently confirmed due to delays in detection and reporting.
According to the WHO, there have been about 600 suspected cases and 139 suspected deaths so far, with expectations that the figures may increase further as surveillance expands. The health agency confirmed 51 cases in the Democratic Republic of Congo (Democratic Republic of the Congo), where the outbreak began, and two additional cases in neighbouring Uganda.
WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the outbreak of the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola likely began “a couple of months ago,” warning that transmission may have gone undetected in several affected areas.
He explained that the outbreak, which prompted a recent declaration of a public health emergency of international concern, is not classified as a pandemic threat but remains highly concerning at national and regional levels.
Health officials say healthcare workers are among those affected, raising additional concern about exposure risks within treatment facilities. Investigations are ongoing to determine the full scale and timeline of the outbreak, while efforts are being intensified to contain its spread.
The outbreak has affected multiple areas in eastern DR Congo, including Ituri and North Kivu provinces, with cases reported in cities such as Bunia, Mongwalu, Rwampara, Nyakunde, Goma, and Butembo. In Uganda, confirmed cases include travellers linked to cross-border movement from DR Congo.
The Bundibugyo strain of Ebola is considered rare, with limited previous outbreaks and no approved specific vaccine, although experimental vaccines are currently under development. Health experts say existing vaccines for other Ebola strains may offer partial protection, but treatment options remain limited.
Eastern DR Congo continues to face challenges in responding to outbreaks due to ongoing conflict, difficult terrain, and overlapping symptoms of Ebola with other common diseases such as malaria and typhoid.
Despite concerns raised internationally, WHO maintains that the global risk remains low, while stressing that urgent containment measures are needed to prevent further spread.
