WHO Warns Ebola Cases Rising Rapidly in Eastern Congo

(MENAFN) The World Health Organization has raised alarm over a worsening Ebola outbreak in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, where hundreds of suspected infections and more than 130 possible deaths have already been reported.

Health officials in the country said authorities have identified 543 suspected Ebola cases so far. The outbreak is centered in the eastern part of the nation, where ongoing violence and displacement are complicating containment efforts.

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus cautioned that the situation may deteriorate quickly due to several conditions helping the virus spread. According to the organization, Ebola was likely “circulating for weeks” before officials detected the outbreak, meaning the actual number of infections could continue increasing.

Reports indicate that cases have emerged in multiple urban centers, while some healthcare workers are among those who died, heightening concerns about transmission inside hospitals and clinics.

The outbreak is unfolding alongside a severe security crisis in Ituri province, where the largest number of suspected fatalities has been recorded. Reports also state that more than 100,000 people have fled the area in recent months because of intensifying violence and instability.

“The province of Ituri is highly insecure,” Ghebreyesus stated.

Eastern Congo remains affected by conflict involving the M23 rebel movement, which continues to control sections of the region and contributes to ongoing humanitarian difficulties.

The WHO chief further warned that the outbreak is linked to the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, which currently has no approved vaccine or specific treatment. He also noted that the affected zone is heavily tied to mining activity and frequent population movement, factors that could accelerate the spread of the disease to other areas.

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