World AffairsFrance 24Sun, May 17, 2026, 8:39 AMNegative

WHO declares global health emergency over Ebola outbreak in Congo and Uganda

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a public health emergency of international concern due to an Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda, which has resulted in 88 deaths and over 300 suspected cases. The majority of the cases are concentrated in DRC's Ituri province, an area already facing significant challenges.

WHO declares global health emergency over Ebola outbreak in Congo and Uganda

WPN Brief

  • What Happened

    The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a public health emergency of international concern due to an Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda, which has resulted in 88 deaths and over 300 suspected cases. The majority of the cases are concentrated in DRC's Ituri province, an area already facing significant challenges.

  • Why It Matters

    This declaration underscores the urgency of the situation, as the outbreak poses risks not only to the affected countries but also to neighboring regions, necessitating immediate international attention and response.

  • The Bigger Picture

    The ongoing Ebola crisis highlights the persistent challenges in managing infectious diseases in conflict-affected areas, where health infrastructure is often compromised. The situation is exacerbated by the historical context of Ebola outbreaks in the region, raising concerns about the effectiveness of current health measures and the need for coordinated global efforts to combat such public health threats.

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May 17

WHO declares global health emergency over Ebola outbreak in DR Congo

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a public health emergency of international concern regarding the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda, following reports of over 300 suspected cases and at least 88 deaths. General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized that while the situation is serious, it does not meet the criteria for a pandemic like COVID-19, advising against the closure of international borders.

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WHO declares Ebola outbreak in DRC, Uganda a global emergency: What to know

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May 17

WHO says Ebola outbreak in DRC and Uganda is ‘emergency’ of international concern

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A new Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has resulted in at least 87 deaths, as reported by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention. The outbreak is primarily concentrated in Ituri province, where health officials have raised alarms over the rapid spread of the virus, with approximately 246 reported cases. This situation has escalated concerns regarding public health and safety in the region.

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A new outbreak of Ebola in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has resulted in at least 80 deaths and approximately 246 reported cases, with health officials raising alarms over the situation. The outbreak is primarily concentrated in Ituri province, an area already facing significant challenges due to ongoing violence and instability. A case has also been reported in Uganda, indicating the potential for regional spread.

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A strike on a health care centre in Sudan killed at least 64 people, WHO says

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