By Zoila Palma: The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed an Ebola outbreak involving the Bundibugyo virus species in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Uganda, according to WHO information and data released as of May 26, 2026.
WHO said the outbreak is unfolding in a difficult environment marked by humanitarian challenges, insecurity, remote and densely populated areas, and high levels of population and trade movement.
WHO reported that the Bundibugyo species currently involved has no approved vaccine or specific treatment, although research is underway to test potential candidates. The agency said it is expanding support to the governments of the DRC and Uganda by strengthening surveillance, contact tracing, clinical preparedness and management, supply delivery, community engagement and cross-border readiness.
Data from WHO indicate that Congo has recorded 1,077 suspected Ebola cases and 238 suspected deaths, reflecting a suspected case fatality rate of 22 percent. The country has also confirmed 121 cases and 17 deaths, with a confirmed fatality rate of 14 percent. Uganda has reported seven confirmed cases and one confirmed death, also reflecting a 14 percent fatality rate. Combined figures from both countries show 128 confirmed cases and 18 confirmed deaths.
WHO described Ebola as a severe and often fatal disease affecting humans and other primates. The virus is transmitted from infected wild animals, including fruit bats, porcupines and non-human primates, and spreads among humans through direct contact with infected blood, bodily fluids and contaminated materials such as clothing and bedding.
The agency stated that Ebola’s average fatality rate is about 50 percent, though previous outbreaks have ranged from 25 to 90 percent.
The post International News: World Health Organization reports Ebola outbreak in Congo and Uganda appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
By Zoila Palma: The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed an Ebola outbreak involving the Bundibugyo virus species in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Uganda, according to WHO information and data released as of May 26, 2026. WHO said the outbreak is unfolding in a difficult environment marked by humanitarian challenges, insecurity,
The post International News: World Health Organization reports Ebola outbreak in Congo and Uganda appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
