The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a global health emergency following a deadly Ebola outbreak that has killed about 80 people in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and spread to neighbouring Uganda.

The outbreak, first detected in Ituri Province in eastern DRC, has so far been linked to nearly 250 suspected cases, although laboratory confirmation has only validated eight infections. Health authorities say the situation remains highly concerning as investigations continue into the scale of transmission.

Cases have also been confirmed in Uganda, raising fears of cross border spread and prompting intensified surveillance and response measures in both countries.

Rare Ebola strain complicates response

Health experts have identified the virus strain responsible as Bundibugyo ebolavirus, a rare form of Ebola for which there are limited field diagnostic tests and no specific vaccine or targeted treatment currently available.

The absence of widely available medical countermeasures is expected to complicate containment efforts, particularly in remote and high mobility areas.

What is Ebola?

Ebola is a severe illness caused by orthoebolaviruses, first identified in 1976 in what are now South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo, near the Ebola River.

The virus belongs to a group of diseases known as viral haemorrhagic fevers, which can cause severe damage to internal organs and the cardiovascular system, often leading to life threatening complications.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, most Ebola outbreaks have occurred in sub Saharan Africa. Of the six known Ebola virus species, four are known to cause illness in humans, some of which can be fatal.

The current outbreak is linked to the Bundibugyo species, formally known as Orthoebolavirus bundibugyoense, which has historically been less common but remains highly dangerous.

Global response underway

The WHO’s emergency declaration is expected to trigger enhanced international coordination, funding, and deployment of health resources to support affected countries in containing the outbreak and preventing further spread.