The World Health Organization has warned that the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo is outpacing response efforts, with neighbouring countries at high risk. WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus urged immediate action as he announced 220 suspected deaths so far.
Attacks on health facilities in Ituri province, the outbreak's epicentre, are hampering the response. In Mongbwalu, 18 Ebola patients fled after unidentified individuals burned treatment tents, and seven more escaped during subsequent attacks. A suspected patient died while trying to flee.
The perpetrators demanded the release of Ebola victims' bodies for traditional burials, which involve washing and touching the deceased—a known driver of disease spread. Similar incidents occurred in Rwampara, where a treatment centre was set on fire.
Uganda reported two new Ebola cases on Monday, bringing the total to seven, including health workers in Kampala. The outbreak is caused by the rare Bundibugyo ebolavirus, which has no approved treatment or vaccine.
Hotspots include Rwampara, Mongbwalu, Nyankunde, and Bunia in Ituri, a conflict-ridden region where militia violence has killed over 50,000 people since 1999. Cases have also been reported in Butembo, Goma, and Bukavu.
