WHO declares Ebola health emergency in DRC and Uganda, rules out pandemic status

The World Health Organization has declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) over a rare strain of Ebola virus disease in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda, following growing concerns over cross-border transmission and rising suspected deaths.

The organization clarified that while the outbreak meets the criteria of a PHEIC, it does not meet the threshold of a pandemic emergency under the International Health Regulations (2005).

As of 16 May 2026, health authorities in the DRC have reported 8 laboratory-confirmed cases, 246 suspected cases, and 80 suspected deaths across multiple health zones in Ituri Province.

Unusual clusters of community deaths and increasing syndromic reports have raised concerns that the true scale of the outbreak may be larger than currently confirmed.

The virus has already crossed borders, with Uganda reporting two confirmed cases in Kampala—both linked to travel from the DRC.

The situation has heightened fears of regional spread, particularly given population movement, humanitarian challenges, and gaps in infection prevention and control in affected areas. WHO noted that at least four healthcare workers have died under circumstances consistent with viral haemorrhagic fever, underscoring concerns about nosocomial transmission and weaknesses in hospital infection control systems. 

Unlike other Ebola strains, no approved vaccines or specific antiviral treatments are currently available for this variant, adding to the urgency of the response. WHO has urged immediate action from affected countries, including activation of emergency coordination systems, strengthened surveillance and contact tracing, improved laboratory capacity, strict infection prevention measures, and the establishment of specialized treatment centres.

The agency also recommended exit screening at key transport points, restrictions on travel for confirmed cases and contacts, and enhanced community engagement to improve early detection and risk awareness. However, WHO emphasized that countries should not impose border closures or unnecessary travel and trade restrictions, warning that such measures could disrupt response efforts and are not scientifically justified.

The organization is expected to convene an Emergency Committee to further assess the situation and issue updated temporary recommendations as the outbreak evolves.