Tag: EbolaOutbreak

The World Health Organization has raised the public health risk of the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo from “high” to “very high” as infections continue to spread across the country. Health officials reported nearly 750 suspected Ebola cases and 177 suspected deaths linked to the outbreak. The virus strain involved in this outbreak is the rare Bundibugyo species, which currently has no approved vaccine. WHO Raises Alert Level WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus announced the updated risk assessment during a health briefing in Geneva. He said the national threat level in DR Congo is now considered “very high,” while the regional risk across Africa remains “high.” However, the global risk is still classified as “low.” According to health officials, 82 Ebola cases have already been confirmed in DR Congo, including seven confirmed deaths. Rare Ebola Strain Creates Concern The Bundibugyo strain of Ebola worries experts because researchers have limited tools to fight it. Unlike other Ebola types, this rare species does not yet have a proven vaccine. Ebola is a dangerous viral disease that usually spreads from infected animals to humans. Fruit bats are believed to be the natural carriers of the virus. In some cases, outbreaks begin after people handle or consume infected animals. Although the Bundibugyo strain is considered less deadly than some other Ebola variants, it still kills nearly one third of infected patients. Oxford Scientists Working on New Vaccine Scientists at University of Oxford are currently developing a new vaccine to target the Bundibugyo strain. Researchers believe the vaccine could enter clinical trials within the next two to three months. The team is using technology similar to the one used to create the AstraZeneca Covid vaccine. Experts have already started animal testing in Oxford to study the vaccine’s effectiveness. However, researchers say they still need further testing before confirming whether the vaccine works safely in humans. India Could Help Produce Vaccine The Serum Institute of India is expected to help mass produce the vaccine once scientists provide medical grade materials. Meanwhile, another experimental Bundibugyo vaccine is also under development. Early reports suggest researchers may need six to nine months before they can begin testing that vaccine. Uganda Monitoring Situation Closely Health officials also confirmed two Ebola cases and one death in neighbouring Uganda. Authorities said both infected individuals had recently travelled from DR Congo. Despite the cases, WHO described the situation in Uganda as stable and said officials continue to monitor the spread carefully.

Ebola Risk Raised to ‘Very High’ in DR Congo as Cases Continue to Rise

The World Health Organization has raised the public health risk of the…

May 22, 2026

An outbreak of violence erupted at a hospital in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo after the death of a young man suspected of having Ebola. Family members and friends tried to take his body for burial but were stopped by health workers following strict safety rules to prevent infection. The situation quickly escalated. People in the crowd began throwing objects at the facility. Several tents used for isolation and treatment were set on fire. The incident took place at Rwampara General Hospital near Bunia in Ituri province, where most Ebola cases have been recorded. Police responded by firing warning shots to disperse the crowd and regain control of the area. Community reaction and confusion Witnesses said the deceased was a well known local football player. His mother believed he had died from typhoid rather than Ebola, which added to the tension. Local leaders reported that many people in the area do not trust official information about the virus. Some residents believe Ebola is not real or think it is linked to outside organizations and health programs for financial gain. Officials said this lack of trust and awareness is making the response more difficult, especially in remote communities. Medical response and security measures Health workers explained that Ebola burial protocols are essential because the virus remains highly contagious after death. Safe handling of bodies is necessary to prevent further spread. During the unrest, one healthcare worker was injured by stones thrown from the crowd. Medical staff were placed under military protection while security forces restored order at the hospital. Several treatment tents were destroyed in the fire, and at least one body prepared for burial was lost in the chaos. Government response Authorities described the situation as very serious and concerning for public safety. Officials stated that efforts are being increased to improve communication with local communities and to rebuild trust in health services. They emphasized the need for better public awareness so that families understand why strict medical procedures are required during outbreaks.

Angry crowd sets Ebola treatment tents on fire in eastern Congo

An outbreak of violence erupted at a hospital in eastern Democratic Republic…

May 22, 2026