In brief
The World Health Organization has warned that the current Ebola epidemic in the Democratic Republic of Congo began three months before it was formally declared, exposing a gap in rapid response. Since May 15, the region has suffered 1,960 deaths, making it the second‑worst outbreak in history. The Bundibugyo strain, spreading in a volatile east‑Congo region, has no approved vaccine and relies on makeshift containment measures. Insecurity, cultural burial practices and mistrust of health workers have hampered control efforts, yet new treatment centres are expanding coverage. The WHO stresses the need for swift action and international support to stem the epidemic.
We are chasing Ebola virus - it is ahead of us, WHO warns
The latest Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) began at least three months before it was officially declared, WHO Africa director Dr. Mohamed Janabi warned today in Bunia, the heart of the crisis.
Since the declaration on 15 May, the epidemic has killed 1,960 people, making it the second-worst Ebola outbreak ever recorded.
Health authorities are struggling to keep up with high infection rates as security concerns and mistrust of health services leave many cases untreated. Traditional burial rituals that involve touching the dead, coupled with suspicion toward outsiders, have further amplified the spread.
This outbreak is caused by the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, which lacks an approved vaccine or specific therapeutics, complicating treatment. Despite these challenges, several dedicated treatment centres have opened in eastern DRC, leading to faster diagnosis and care.
The WHO is calling for urgent international cooperation and resources to ramp up surveillance, community engagement and medical support, emphasising that the virus is ahead and must be chased before it dominates the region.
