The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised the public health risk level of the current Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) from “high” to “very high.” This update reflects growing concerns about the spread and severity of the outbreak, which involves the rare Bundibugyo species of the Ebola virus.
Why this matters
The increase in risk level signals a heightened threat to public health within DR Congo and the surrounding region. The Bundibugyo strain of Ebola is particularly challenging because there is no proven vaccine currently available, and it has a fatality rate of about one-third of those infected. The outbreak has already resulted in 177 suspected deaths and 750 suspected cases, underscoring the urgency of an effective response to contain the virus and prevent further spread.
Current situation and response
WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated that the risk remains “high” in the wider African region but “low” at the global level. In DR Congo, 82 cases have been confirmed with seven confirmed deaths. Neighboring Uganda has reported two confirmed cases and one death, all linked to travel from DR Congo, but the situation there is considered stable.
The outbreak is concentrated in the eastern part of DR Congo, particularly in Ituri province near the city of Bunia. The region faces additional challenges due to ongoing violence and insecurity, which have hampered efforts to control the outbreak. Some cases have been reported in rebel-held areas, complicating access for health workers.
Challenges on the ground
Fear and mistrust are widespread among local communities. A recent incident at Rwampara General Hospital in Ituri province highlighted tensions when relatives of a deceased Ebola patient set fire to the hospital after health workers refused to release the body due to contamination risks. Police intervened to restore order, and medical staff were placed under military protection.
Safe burial practices are critical to preventing further transmission, as the bodies of Ebola victims remain highly infectious. However, community resistance and violence have made these efforts difficult.
Vaccine development efforts
Scientists at Oxford University are developing a new vaccine targeting the Bundibugyo strain, with clinical trials potentially starting within two to three months. This vaccine uses the same technology as the AstraZeneca Covid vaccine, though its effectiveness is not yet confirmed. Animal testing is currently underway.
The Serum Institute of India is prepared to mass-produce the vaccine once medical-grade material is available from Oxford. Additionally, another experimental Bundibugyo vaccine is in development but may take six to nine months before it is ready for testing. WHO research adviser Dr Vasee Moorthy described this vaccine as “the most promising,” comparing it to Ervebo, which is used for the more common Zaire Ebola species.
Background on Ebola and the Bundibugyo strain
Ebola is a rare but deadly viral disease that typically infects animals such as fruit bats before spreading to humans. The Bundibugyo strain is less deadly than some other Ebola species but is rare and lacks established vaccines or treatments. Outbreaks can start when people handle or consume infected animals.
On Sunday, WHO declared the outbreak a public health emergency of international concern but clarified that it does not currently pose a pandemic-level threat.
Recommended reading
For more context, see related Peack News coverage and explainers linked below.
