The World Health Organisation (WHO) director-general, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has declared the Ebola disease outbreak in Congo and Uganda a public health emergency of international concern. This declaration follows more than 300 suspected cases and 88 deaths reported across the two African nations.
Outbreak Details
The outbreak, caused by the Bundibugyo virus, does not meet the criteria for a pandemic emergency like Covid-19, according to the WHO. The health body has advised against the closure of international borders in response to the outbreak.
Geographic Spread
While most cases are in Congo, two cases have been confirmed in Uganda's capital, Kampala, both linked to travel from Congo. The WHO continues to monitor the situation closely and coordinate response efforts with local authorities.
