The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has passed 5,000, prompting a global health emergency in the country. In the recent emergency meeting, the World Health Organisation (WHO) called on the international community to help in efforts to curb the outbreak, which has claimed the lives of over 2,320 people.&nbsp;This is the seventeenth outbreak in the DRC, which is now also being considered the deadliest, crossing the total deaths during the 2018 to 2020 outbreak, 2,299. The emergency has prompted major concern for several reasons, as there is currently no approved vaccine or treatment for this strain of Ebola, known as Bundibugyo.&nbsp;As of now, confirmed Ebola cases and outbreaks have been reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, and via one travel-imported case in France. The outbreak has extended beyond Ituri to five more provinces in the DRC. The outbreak has extended beyond Ituri to five more provinces in DRC: North Kivu, South Kivu, Haut-Uélé, Tshopo and Bas-Uélé. In addition, cases were reported in Uganda's capital, Kampala.<h3>How did Ebola become the deadliest in DR Congo?</h3>The ongoing outbreak of Ebola stems from Bundibugyo virus disease (BVD), a rare form of Ebola that was first identified in Uganda in 2007. Unlike the Zaire strain, which has vaccines and certain treatments already available, Bundibugyo currently has no approved vaccines or specific licensed therapies. To curb the spread of the virus, health workers are heavily depending on early detection, supportive care, infection-control practices, and community engagement to limit transmission. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), the outbreak originated in Ituri Province and later spread to other areas. The agency has cautioned that armed conflict, displaced population, and delays in spotting new cases have complicated efforts to contain the virus. Officials note that the virus was already spreading before the outbreak was formally declared on May 15. By the time it was identified, transmission had already taken hold within communities, giving infection chains time to grow before response teams could be fully mobilised. WHO reported that the outbreak was initially centred in Ituri's Mongbwalu Health Zone before extending into other provinces, with Congolese authorities acknowledging that delayed case identification helped fuel its spread.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/the-growing-importance-of-electronic-warfare-in-the-drone-age-wion-exclusive-1786966589389">The growing importance of electronic warfare in the drone age: WION Exclusive</a><h3>Cultural and regional issues</h3>The outbreak took root in Ituri, an eastern DRC province long scarred by ethnic conflict. The region holds significant mineral wealth, including gold, tin, tungsten and tantalum, most of which is extracted through small-scale artisanal mining. Control over these lucrative mining zones is fiercely contested by armed factions such as the ADF, CODECO, and the Rwanda-backed M23. Ongoing fighting and movement restrictions imposed by these groups have hampered humanitarian access, disrupted aid delivery, limited civilian mobility, and reduced access to essential services. Efforts to trace contacts of infected individuals are further complicated by large-scale refugee movements, cross-border travel, and mining-related migration. Compounding this, traditional burial customs in the region often unfold over several days and can involve washing and dressing the body, transporting it to ancestral land, and physically touching the deceased during burial rites, practices that put mourners at heightened risk of infection. &nbsp;

In 2026, as of now, confirmed Ebola cases and outbreaks have been reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, and via one travel-imported case in France. The outbreak has extended beyond Ituri to five more provinces in the DRC.

The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has passed 5,000, prompting a global health emergency in the country. In the recent emergency meeting, the World Health Organisation (WHO) called on the international community to help in efforts to curb the outbreak, which has claimed the lives of over 2,320 people. This is the seventeenth outbreak in the DRC, which is now also being considered the deadliest, crossing the total deaths during the 2018 to 2020 outbreak, 2,299. The emergency has prompted major concern for several reasons, as there is currently no approved vaccine or treatment for this strain of Ebola, known as Bundibugyo. As of now, confirmed Ebola cases and outbreaks have been reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, and via one travel-imported case in France. The outbreak has extended beyond Ituri to five more provinces in the DRC. The outbreak has extended beyond Ituri to five more provinces in DRC: North Kivu, South Kivu, Haut-Uélé, Tshopo and Bas-Uélé. In addition, cases were reported in Uganda's capital, Kampala. How did Ebola become the deadliest in DR Congo? The ongoing outbreak of Ebola stems from Bundibugyo virus disease (BVD), a rare form of Ebola that was first identified in Uganda in 2007. Unlike the Zaire strain, which has vaccines and certain treatments already available, Bundibugyo currently has no approved vaccines or specific licensed therapies. To curb the spread of the virus, health workers are heavily depending on early detection, supportive care, infection-control practices, and community engagement to limit transmission. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), the outbreak originated in Ituri Province and later spread to other areas. The agency has cautioned that armed conflict, displaced population, and delays in spotting new cases have complicated efforts to contain the virus. Officials note that the virus was already spreading before the outbreak was formally declared on May 15. By the time it was identified, transmission had already taken hold within communities, giving infection chains time to grow before response teams could be fully mobilised. WHO reported that the outbreak was initially centred in Ituri's Mongbwalu Health Zone before extending into other provinces, with Congolese authorities acknowledging that delayed case identification helped fuel its spread. Also read: The growing importance of electronic warfare in the drone age: WION Exclusive Cultural and regional issues The outbreak took root in Ituri, an eastern DRC province long scarred by ethnic conflict. The region holds significant mineral wealth, including gold, tin, tungsten and tantalum, most of which is extracted through small-scale artisanal mining. Control over these lucrative mining zones is fiercely contested by armed factions such as the ADF, CODECO, and the Rwanda-backed M23. Ongoing fighting and movement restrictions imposed by these groups have hampered humanitarian access, disrupted aid delivery, limited civilian mobility, and reduced access to essential services. Efforts to trace contacts of infected individuals are further complicated by large-scale refugee movements, cross-border travel, and mining-related migration. Compounding this, traditional burial customs in the region often unfold over several days and can involve washing and dressing the body, transporting it to ancestral land, and physically touching the deceased during burial rites, practices that put mourners at heightened risk of infection.

As of now, confirmed Ebola cases and outbreaks have been reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, and via one travel-imported case in France. The outbreak has extended beyond Ituri to five more provinces in the DRC.

Why DR Congo's Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak became its deadliest? EXPLAINED

The World Health Organisation (WHO) and the African Union's public health agency, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), launched a $518-million joint plan on Friday (June 5). The time-bound, six-month plan will cover June to November, aiming to contain an alarming Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and its neighbours while reducing further spread.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ebola-outbreak-sparks-hope-as-three-new-vaccine-breakthroughs-emerge-1780386101225/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/ebola-outbreak-sparks-hope-as-three-new-vaccine-breakthroughs-emerge-1780386101225/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;The outbreak was officially declared on May 15 in northeastern DRC, though the rare Bundibugyo strain of the virus is believed to have been spreading unnoticed prior to the declaration. According to the latest figures from the WHO, there have been 381 confirmed cases and 64 deaths in the DRC.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-know-what-we-are-doing-protests-erupt-in-kenya-over-ebola-quarantine-facility-for-us-citizens-president-defends-move-1780389268482">'We know what we are doing': Protests erupt in Kenya over Ebola quarantine facility for US citizens; president defends move</a> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;The virus has impacted three provinces in the northeastern part of the country, with the epicentre located in Ituri. The Africa CDC reported that Ituri alone accounts for 90 per cent of the confirmed cases and 76 per cent of the deaths. The outbreak has also crossed the northeastern border into Uganda, where officials have recorded 16 confirmed cases, including one death.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/zinc-lined-coffins-police-supervised-cremations-india-s-new-ebola-death-protocol-explained-1780339455301">Zinc-lined coffins, police-supervised cremations: India's new Ebola death protocol explained</a>&nbsp;"The plan focuses on core areas: emergency coordination, surveillance, laboratory testing, infection prevention and control, clinical care, and community engagement," WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated during a press conference. He described the joint initiative as a practical plan that outlines necessary, immediate actions to collectively manage the crisis.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

The WHO and Africa CDC have launched a 6-month, $518M plan to combat the rare Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak in the DRC and Uganda, which currently lacks a vaccine.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) and the African Union's public health agency, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), launched a $518-million joint plan on Friday (June 5). The time-bound, six-month plan will cover June to November, aiming to contain an alarming Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and its neighbours while reducing further spread. https://www.wionews.com/videos/ebola-outbreak-sparks-hope-as-three-new-vaccine-breakthroughs-emerge-1780386101225/embed The outbreak was officially declared on May 15 in northeastern DRC, though the rare Bundibugyo strain of the virus is believed to have been spreading unnoticed prior to the declaration. According to the latest figures from the WHO, there have been 381 confirmed cases and 64 deaths in the DRC. Also read: 'We know what we are doing': Protests erupt in Kenya over Ebola quarantine facility for US citizens; president defends move The virus has impacted three provinces in the northeastern part of the country, with the epicentre located in Ituri. The Africa CDC reported that Ituri alone accounts for 90 per cent of the confirmed cases and 76 per cent of the deaths. The outbreak has also crossed the northeastern border into Uganda, where officials have recorded 16 confirmed cases, including one death. Also read: Zinc-lined coffins, police-supervised cremations: India's new Ebola death protocol explained "The plan focuses on core areas: emergency coordination, surveillance, laboratory testing, infection prevention and control, clinical care, and community engagement," WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated during a press conference. He described the joint initiative as a practical plan that outlines necessary, immediate actions to collectively manage the crisis.

The WHO and Africa CDC have launched a 6-month, $518M plan to combat the rare Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak in the DRC and Uganda, which currently lacks a vaccine.

WHO, Africa CDC launch $518 mn emergency plan to fight vaccine-resistant Ebola outbreak

A businessman from the Democratic Republic of Congo and three people who came in contact with him have been admitted to isolation wards in Ahmedabad after their samples were sent for Ebola testing, Gujarat Health Minister Praful Pansheriya said on Wednesday.&nbsp;The businessman, identified as 37-year-old Amuri Lokula, arrived in India from Congo earlier this month and first landed in Mumbai. He reportedly stayed there for five days before travelling to Silvassa and Daman. On May 22, he reached Vadodara.&nbsp;On May 26, Lokula was admitted to a hospital in Vadodara after developing symptoms such as fever and a cold. Doctors later referred him to a government hospital in Ahmedabad after learning about his recent travel history to Congo, where Ebola cases have been reported.&nbsp;He is currently being kept in an isolation ward under medical observation, while test results are awaited.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/enemy-is-now-pursuing-other-means-iran-says-us-israel-still-seek-to-overthrow-islamic-republic-1779885819564">‘Enemy is now pursuing other means’: Iran says US, Israel still seek to overthrow Islamic Republic</a>&nbsp;The health minister said the patient’s condition was stable and his temperature remained under control. He added that the people linked to the patient were not showing any symptoms so far.&nbsp;“Two other individuals who had accompanied him have also been admitted to isolated wards at SVP Hospital in Ahmedabad as a precautionary measure. Another person who came in contact with these individuals, has also been isolated,” the minister said.&nbsp;The development comes days after a 28-year-old woman from Uganda was isolated in Bengaluru over suspected Ebola symptoms. Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao later confirmed that she tested negative.&nbsp;The woman had arrived from an Ebola-affected region and was shifted to the state-run Epidemic Diseases Hospital in Bengaluru after reporting mild symptoms, including body aches.&nbsp;The ongoing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda was declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern by the World Health Organisation on May 17.

The businessman, identified as 37-year-old Amuri Lokula, arrived in India from Congo earlier this month and was admitted to a hospital in Vadodara on May 26 after developing fever and cold symptoms.

A businessman from the Democratic Republic of Congo and three people who came in contact with him have been admitted to isolation wards in Ahmedabad after their samples were sent for Ebola testing, Gujarat Health Minister Praful Pansheriya said on Wednesday. The businessman, identified as 37-year-old Amuri Lokula, arrived in India from Congo earlier this month and first landed in Mumbai. He reportedly stayed there for five days before travelling to Silvassa and Daman. On May 22, he reached Vadodara. On May 26, Lokula was admitted to a hospital in Vadodara after developing symptoms such as fever and a cold. Doctors later referred him to a government hospital in Ahmedabad after learning about his recent travel history to Congo, where Ebola cases have been reported. He is currently being kept in an isolation ward under medical observation, while test results are awaited. Also Read: ‘Enemy is now pursuing other means’: Iran says US, Israel still seek to overthrow Islamic Republic The health minister said the patient’s condition was stable and his temperature remained under control. He added that the people linked to the patient were not showing any symptoms so far. “Two other individuals who had accompanied him have also been admitted to isolated wards at SVP Hospital in Ahmedabad as a precautionary measure. Another person who came in contact with these individuals, has also been isolated,” the minister said. The development comes days after a 28-year-old woman from Uganda was isolated in Bengaluru over suspected Ebola symptoms. Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao later confirmed that she tested negative. The woman had arrived from an Ebola-affected region and was shifted to the state-run Epidemic Diseases Hospital in Bengaluru after reporting mild symptoms, including body aches. The ongoing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda was declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern by the World Health Organisation on May 17.

The businessman, identified as 37-year-old Amuri Lokula, arrived in India from Congo earlier this month and was admitted to a hospital in Vadodara on May 26 after developing fever and cold symptoms.

Congo businessman, 3 contacts isolated in Ahmedabad over Ebola-like symptoms

Russia has claimed that its Ebola vaccine may offer protection against Bundibugyo, the rare strain driving the current outbreak in Central Africa. This comes as the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the situation an international public health emergency. The vaccine announcement was made by Russian Health Minister Mikhail Murashko, according to the Russian Embassy in South Africa.<h2>How effective is the vaccine against Ebola's Bundibugyo strain?</h2>In a statement, the embassy said Russian researchers had created a vaccine against Ebola. The embassy added that scientists believe the vaccine "may also protect" against the current strain responsible for the outbreak in Congo. The Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, a rare and highly dangerous variant, is now driving outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and neighbouring Uganda. According to Alexander Gintsburg, scientific director of the Gamaleya Centre, the Russian Ebola vaccine likely protects against the rare Bundibugyo strain. He noted that the genetic similarity between this virus variant and the vaccine strain is about 60-70 per cent.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ebola-in-europe-two-aid-workers-in-italy-show-signs-of-ebola-after-returning-from-uganda-1779801873935">Two aid workers in Italy show signs of Ebola after returning from Uganda</a><h2>WHO declares PHEIC over DRC's Ebola outbreak</h2>On May 17, the WHO officially declared the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), its highest level of global health alert under the International Health Regulations.Africa CDC has separately labelled the outbreak a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security.<h2>Why the outbreak is alarming</h2>The eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has emerged as the centre of the outbreak. According to figures released by Congolese authorities, the disease has already caused 204 deaths and at least 867 suspected cases. Uganda has also confirmed cases, including at least one death.The WHO believes the actual spread may be significantly wider than official figures suggest, warning that the virus may have circulated undetected for some time before authorities identified the outbreak.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-mandates-21-day-ebola-quarantine-for-drc-and-uganda-arrivals-1779796413904">Thailand mandates 21-day Ebola quarantine for DRC and Uganda arrivals</a><h2>What is Ebola?</h2>Ebola is a severe viral haemorrhagic fever that spreads through direct contact with bodily fluids. The disease can trigger internal bleeding, organ failure and death, with mortality rates often extremely high during outbreaks.What makes the current situation particularly concerning is the Bundibugyo strain itself. Unlike the more widely known Zaire Ebola strain, there are currently no fully approved vaccines or specific treatments specifically designed for Bundibugyo Ebola.

A dangerous new Ebola strain is spreading across Central Africa. Russia now claims its vaccine can potentially protect against it. With the WHO declaring a global health emergency and deaths rising in Congo and Uganda, concerns are growing over the rare Bundibugyo strain.

Russia has claimed that its Ebola vaccine may offer protection against Bundibugyo, the rare strain driving the current outbreak in Central Africa. This comes as the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the situation an international public health emergency. The vaccine announcement was made by Russian Health Minister Mikhail Murashko, according to the Russian Embassy in South Africa. How effective is the vaccine against Ebola's Bundibugyo strain? In a statement, the embassy said Russian researchers had created a vaccine against Ebola. The embassy added that scientists believe the vaccine "may also protect" against the current strain responsible for the outbreak in Congo. The Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, a rare and highly dangerous variant, is now driving outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and neighbouring Uganda. According to Alexander Gintsburg, scientific director of the Gamaleya Centre, the Russian Ebola vaccine likely protects against the rare Bundibugyo strain. He noted that the genetic similarity between this virus variant and the vaccine strain is about 60-70 per cent. Also read | Two aid workers in Italy show signs of Ebola after returning from Uganda WHO declares PHEIC over DRC's Ebola outbreak On May 17, the WHO officially declared the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), its highest level of global health alert under the International Health Regulations. Africa CDC has separately labelled the outbreak a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security. Why the outbreak is alarming The eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has emerged as the centre of the outbreak. According to figures released by Congolese authorities, the disease has already caused 204 deaths and at least 867 suspected cases. Uganda has also confirmed cases, including at least one death. The WHO believes the actual spread may be significantly wider than official figures suggest, warning that the virus may have circulated undetected for some time before authorities identified the outbreak. Also read | Thailand mandates 21-day Ebola quarantine for DRC and Uganda arrivals What is Ebola? Ebola is a severe viral haemorrhagic fever that spreads through direct contact with bodily fluids. The disease can trigger internal bleeding, organ failure and death, with mortality rates often extremely high during outbreaks. What makes the current situation particularly concerning is the Bundibugyo strain itself. Unlike the more widely known Zaire Ebola strain, there are currently no fully approved vaccines or specific treatments specifically designed for Bundibugyo Ebola.

A dangerous new Ebola strain is spreading across Central Africa. Russia now claims its vaccine can potentially protect against it. With the WHO declaring a global health emergency and deaths rising in Congo and Uganda, concerns are growing over the rare Bundibugyo strain.

Russia claims its Ebola vaccine may protect against Bundibugyo strain that has killed 204 in DRC? All you need to know

Italy could have two suspected cases of Ebola, according to reports, with two aid workers showing symptoms of the disease that has ravaged DR Congo. A man and a woman who returned from Uganda after being there for three months are suffering from high fever, nausea, vomiting and intestinal problems, Daily Mail reported. A health alert is in place in northern Lombardy. Lombardy's regional welfare minister, Guido Bertolaso, said there was "no certainty that this is Ebola", adding, "We are hopeful they will be negative." Doctors are also considering the possibility of a form of malaria, which could be the likely diagnosis. They believe the woman could be suffering from cerebral malaria and might have to be admitted to the ICU. She belongs to Lurate Caccivio and has developed severe symptoms, including a very high fever and mild neurological issues.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-mandates-21-day-ebola-quarantine-for-drc-and-uganda-arrivals-1779796413904">Thailand mandates 21-day Ebola quarantine for DRC and Uganda arrivals</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, the man from Bulgarograsso has milder symptoms and gastrointestinal problems. The Health Ministry said in a statement that the risk of Ebola in Italy "remains very low". A deadly strain of the Ebola virus is spreading across central Africa and has sparked fears of a wider spread. WHO has said that the risk of a global spread remains low. More than 900 suspected cases and 234 deaths have been reported in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Three Red Cross volunteers have also contracted the virus.&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/ebola-outbreak-who-urges-neighbouring-nations-to-act-immediately-1779767141481/embed<h2>Current Ebola strain has no vaccine&nbsp;</h2>The European Commission's Health Security Committee held a meeting on Sunday to discuss the Ebola emergency in Africa. All flights to and from Bunia have been grounded. Most cases and deaths have occurred in this DRC city. However, experts fear that the virus could have already spread to South Sudan. Ebola outbreaks have killed 50 per cent of those infected in the past. The current outbreak is fuelled by the Bundibugyo strain, which has no vaccines, as these are only available for the Zaire variant. Scientists at Oxford University are working to develop a vaccine, but with human testing and trials not expected for 2-3 months, it would not be available to be administered for at least six months.&nbsp;

Ebola outbreak in DR Congo: Two aid workers who have returned to Italy from Uganda are showing symptoms of the Ebola virus. However,  Lombardy's regional welfare minister is hopeful that they will test negative.

Italy could have two suspected cases of Ebola, according to reports, with two aid workers showing symptoms of the disease that has ravaged DR Congo. A man and a woman who returned from Uganda after being there for three months are suffering from high fever, nausea, vomiting and intestinal problems, Daily Mail reported. A health alert is in place in northern Lombardy. Lombardy's regional welfare minister, Guido Bertolaso, said there was "no certainty that this is Ebola", adding, "We are hopeful they will be negative." Doctors are also considering the possibility of a form of malaria, which could be the likely diagnosis. They believe the woman could be suffering from cerebral malaria and might have to be admitted to the ICU. She belongs to Lurate Caccivio and has developed severe symptoms, including a very high fever and mild neurological issues. Also Read: Thailand mandates 21-day Ebola quarantine for DRC and Uganda arrivals Meanwhile, the man from Bulgarograsso has milder symptoms and gastrointestinal problems. The Health Ministry said in a statement that the risk of Ebola in Italy "remains very low". A deadly strain of the Ebola virus is spreading across central Africa and has sparked fears of a wider spread. WHO has said that the risk of a global spread remains low. More than 900 suspected cases and 234 deaths have been reported in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Three Red Cross volunteers have also contracted the virus. https://www.wionews.com/videos/ebola-outbreak-who-urges-neighbouring-nations-to-act-immediately-1779767141481/embed Current Ebola strain has no vaccine The European Commission's Health Security Committee held a meeting on Sunday to discuss the Ebola emergency in Africa. All flights to and from Bunia have been grounded. Most cases and deaths have occurred in this DRC city. However, experts fear that the virus could have already spread to South Sudan. Ebola outbreaks have killed 50 per cent of those infected in the past. The current outbreak is fuelled by the Bundibugyo strain, which has no vaccines, as these are only available for the Zaire variant. Scientists at Oxford University are working to develop a vaccine, but with human testing and trials not expected for 2-3 months, it would not be available to be administered for at least six months.

Ebola outbreak in DR Congo: Two aid workers who have returned to Italy from Uganda are showing symptoms of the Ebola virus. However, &nbsp;Lombardy's regional welfare minister is hopeful that they will test negative.

Two aid workers in Italy show signs of Ebola after returning from Uganda

Thailand Imposes 21-Day Ebola Quarantine for Travellers from DRC, UgandaThailand has imposed a mandatory 21-day quarantine on all travellers arriving from or transiting through the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) or Uganda, amid a surging Ebola outbreak in both countries. The eastern DRC remains the epicentre of the crisis. Since Kinshasa declared an outbreak on May 15, the DRC's health ministry has recorded 867 suspected cases and 204 deaths. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has separately logged 10 confirmed Ebola deaths and 220 suspected deaths in the country, along with roughly 900 suspected cases. The UN agency has warned that the true scale of the outbreak is likely far wider, as experts believe the virus had been spreading undetected for some time before it was officially declared.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ebola-outbreak-around-220-suspected-deaths-linked-to-ebola-epidemic-in-dr-congo-1779762647331/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/ebola-outbreak-around-220-suspected-deaths-linked-to-ebola-epidemic-in-dr-congo-1779762647331/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;The crisis has also crossed into neighbouring Uganda, where one person has died and six more have been confirmed infected. In response, Thailand's public health ministry announced on Tuesday that travellers from or transiting through either country, regardless of whether they are showing symptoms, must undergo a minimum 21-day quarantine. Those displaying symptoms of Ebola infection will be required to isolate at a designated state hospital, while asymptomatic travellers will be directed to a separate, unspecified quarantine facility.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-declares-global-health-emergency-over-rapidly-spreading-ebola-outbreak-in-drc-1779193683844">WHO declares global health emergency over rapidly spreading Ebola outbreak in DRC</a>&nbsp;Senior public health ministry official Somlerk Jeungsmarn noted that Thailand has not yet reported any Ebola-affected travellers. However, he said the quarantine measures were necessary given the risks posed by global population movement. Ebola is a deadly viral disease transmitted through direct contact with bodily fluids. It can trigger severe internal bleeding and organ failure, and has historically carried high fatality rates in affected regions.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rubio-criticises-who-as-a-little-late-identifying-deadly-congo-ebola-outbreak-1779210878638">Rubio criticises WHO as 'a little late' identifying deadly Congo Ebola outbreak</a>&nbsp;The WHO has already declared the DRC outbreak an international health alert, reflecting growing concern about the potential for the virus to spread beyond Central Africa. Thailand's swift quarantine measures signal heightened vigilance among governments worldwide as health authorities work to contain the outbreak before it gains further ground.

Thailand introduces a mandatory 21-day quarantine at Suvarnabhumi Airport for travellers from DRC and Uganda following a surging Ebola outbreak, state officials confirm. 

Thailand Imposes 21-Day Ebola Quarantine for Travellers from DRC, Uganda Thailand has imposed a mandatory 21-day quarantine on all travellers arriving from or transiting through the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) or Uganda, amid a surging Ebola outbreak in both countries. The eastern DRC remains the epicentre of the crisis. Since Kinshasa declared an outbreak on May 15, the DRC's health ministry has recorded 867 suspected cases and 204 deaths. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has separately logged 10 confirmed Ebola deaths and 220 suspected deaths in the country, along with roughly 900 suspected cases. The UN agency has warned that the true scale of the outbreak is likely far wider, as experts believe the virus had been spreading undetected for some time before it was officially declared. https://www.wionews.com/videos/ebola-outbreak-around-220-suspected-deaths-linked-to-ebola-epidemic-in-dr-congo-1779762647331/embed The crisis has also crossed into neighbouring Uganda, where one person has died and six more have been confirmed infected. In response, Thailand's public health ministry announced on Tuesday that travellers from or transiting through either country, regardless of whether they are showing symptoms, must undergo a minimum 21-day quarantine. Those displaying symptoms of Ebola infection will be required to isolate at a designated state hospital, while asymptomatic travellers will be directed to a separate, unspecified quarantine facility. Also read: WHO declares global health emergency over rapidly spreading Ebola outbreak in DRC Senior public health ministry official Somlerk Jeungsmarn noted that Thailand has not yet reported any Ebola-affected travellers. However, he said the quarantine measures were necessary given the risks posed by global population movement. Ebola is a deadly viral disease transmitted through direct contact with bodily fluids. It can trigger severe internal bleeding and organ failure, and has historically carried high fatality rates in affected regions. Also read: Rubio criticises WHO as 'a little late' identifying deadly Congo Ebola outbreak The WHO has already declared the DRC outbreak an international health alert, reflecting growing concern about the potential for the virus to spread beyond Central Africa. Thailand's swift quarantine measures signal heightened vigilance among governments worldwide as health authorities work to contain the outbreak before it gains further ground.

Thailand introduces a mandatory 21-day quarantine at Suvarnabhumi Airport for travellers from DRC and Uganda following a surging Ebola outbreak, state officials confirm.&nbsp;

Thailand mandates 21-day Ebola quarantine for DRC and Uganda arrivals

India’s Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Sunday (May 24) advised citizens to avoid non-essential travel to Ebola Disease-affected countries, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda and South Sudan, following the World Health Organisation’s declaration of the outbreak as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).&nbsp;“In light of the reported outbreaks of Ebola Disease in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Uganda, the World Health Organization (WHO), under the International Health Regulations (IHR), 2005, on May 17, 2026, determined the situation to be a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC),” the health ministry said in a statement.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-breaks-silence-hours-after-white-house-shooting-bats-for-his-safe-and-secure-ballroom-plan-1779595058544">Trump breaks silence hours after White House shooting, bats for secure ballroom</a>&nbsp;The ministry noted that the World Health Organisation had issued the declaration amid growing concerns over the spread of the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus in parts of central and east Africa. The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention has also classified the outbreak affecting the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda as a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security (PHECS).&nbsp;According to the ministry, the WHO International Health Regulation Emergency Committee on May 22 issued temporary recommendations aimed at strengthening disease surveillance at points of entry. These include measures to “detect, assess, report and manage travellers with unexplained febrile illness arriving from areas with documented Bundibugyo virus detection” while also “discouraging travel to areas with documented Bundibugyo virus detection”.&nbsp;As of May 21, the WHO reported 746 suspected cases and 176 deaths among suspected cases in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Across both the DRC and Uganda, 85 confirmed cases, including two in Uganda, and ten confirmed deaths, including one in Uganda, have been recorded so far. The ministry said countries bordering the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda, including South Sudan, were considered to be at high risk of transmission.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-no-one-can-beat-us-in-violence-we-proved-it-during-july-uprising-bangladesh-students-party-warns-pm-s-bnp-1779564646619">‘No one can beat us in violence, we proved it during July uprising’: Bangladesh students’ party warns PM’s BNP</a>&nbsp;Ebola Disease is a viral haemorrhagic fever caused by infection with the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus. Health authorities have described it as a severe illness with a high mortality rate. The ministry added that there are currently no approved vaccines or specific treatments for Ebola Disease caused by the Bundibugyo strain. India has not reported any case of Ebola Disease linked to the Bundibugyo virus strain, the ministry reiterated.&nbsp;“In view of the evolving situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and other affected countries, and in line with WHO’s recommendations, Government of India advises all Indian citizens to avoid non-essential travel to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda and South Sudan until further notice,” the statement added. &nbsp;

Following a WHO global health emergency declaration regarding an outbreak of the Bundibugyo Ebola strain in Central Africa, India has advised citizens to avoid non-essential travel to the DRC, Uganda, and South Sudan.

India’s Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Sunday (May 24) advised citizens to avoid non-essential travel to Ebola Disease-affected countries, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda and South Sudan, following the World Health Organisation’s declaration of the outbreak as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). “In light of the reported outbreaks of Ebola Disease in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Uganda, the World Health Organization (WHO), under the International Health Regulations (IHR), 2005, on May 17, 2026, determined the situation to be a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC),” the health ministry said in a statement. Also read: Trump breaks silence hours after White House shooting, bats for secure ballroom The ministry noted that the World Health Organisation had issued the declaration amid growing concerns over the spread of the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus in parts of central and east Africa. The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention has also classified the outbreak affecting the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda as a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security (PHECS). According to the ministry, the WHO International Health Regulation Emergency Committee on May 22 issued temporary recommendations aimed at strengthening disease surveillance at points of entry. These include measures to “detect, assess, report and manage travellers with unexplained febrile illness arriving from areas with documented Bundibugyo virus detection” while also “discouraging travel to areas with documented Bundibugyo virus detection”. As of May 21, the WHO reported 746 suspected cases and 176 deaths among suspected cases in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Across both the DRC and Uganda, 85 confirmed cases, including two in Uganda, and ten confirmed deaths, including one in Uganda, have been recorded so far. The ministry said countries bordering the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda, including South Sudan, were considered to be at high risk of transmission. Also read: ‘No one can beat us in violence, we proved it during July uprising’: Bangladesh students’ party warns PM’s BNP Ebola Disease is a viral haemorrhagic fever caused by infection with the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus. Health authorities have described it as a severe illness with a high mortality rate. The ministry added that there are currently no approved vaccines or specific treatments for Ebola Disease caused by the Bundibugyo strain. India has not reported any case of Ebola Disease linked to the Bundibugyo virus strain, the ministry reiterated. “In view of the evolving situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and other affected countries, and in line with WHO’s recommendations, Government of India advises all Indian citizens to avoid non-essential travel to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda and South Sudan until further notice,” the statement added.

Following a WHO global health emergency declaration regarding an outbreak of the Bundibugyo Ebola strain in Central Africa, India has advised citizens to avoid non-essential travel to the DRC, Uganda, and South Sudan.

India advises citizens to avoid travel to Ebola-hit African nations after WHO emergency declaration