Ebola outbreak in DR Congo and Uganda: WHO declares global health emergency, 80+ deaths, Sudan strain

A new Ebola outbreak is ongoing in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda, with the Sudan strain of the virus confirmed. The outbreak has already caused over 80 deaths, primarily in the Ituri province of DR Congo, specifically the Mongwalu and Rwampara health zones. Health authorities are working to trace contacts and implement control measures to prevent further spread. There is no vaccine for the Sudan strain. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), underscoring the international community's concern and the need for coordinated efforts. This declaration coincides with the start of the 79th World Health Assembly in Geneva. ## Latest Update The WHO's PHEIC declaration signals a heightened state of alert and calls for international coordination. The declaration comes as the 79th World Health Assembly commences in Geneva, highlighting the urgency and global implications of the outbreak. ## Timeline * **2026-05-15:** Africa CDC confirms a new Ebola outbreak in Congo’s remote Ituri province, with the Sudan strain identified. 246 suspected cases and 65 deaths reported, primarily in Mongwalu and Rwampara health zones. * **2026-05-15:** A new outbreak of Ebola in eastern DR Congo has killed 65 people, with around 246 cases reported. * **2026-05-16:** Laboratory tests confirm Ebola infections in samples collected from affected areas. * **2026-05-17:** The WHO declares the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda a global health emergency, with over 80 deaths reported. * **2026-05-18:** The PHEIC declaration signals a heightened state of alert, calling for international coordination, as the 79th World Health Assembly starts in Geneva. ## What to Watch * **International Response:** Monitor the level and effectiveness of international aid and coordination efforts in containing the outbreak. * **Geographic Spread:** Pay close attention to whether the outbreak spreads beyond the initial affected areas in DR Congo and Uganda. * **Strain Mutation:** Monitor for any signs of mutation in the Sudan strain, which could impact its transmissibility or severity.