Kampala, Uganda — A surge in Ebola cases in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Uganda has prompted international concern and a call for regional cooperation.
As of June 6, 2026, the DRC reported 515 confirmed cases of Bundibugyo virus disease, with 91 deaths, while Uganda has reported 19 confirmed cases, including two deaths.
The World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General, Dr.
Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, visited Uganda on June 8 and 9 to commend the country’s swift response and emphasize the importance of regional collaboration in combating the outbreak.
The Bundibugyo virus, a close relative of Ebola, has caused this latest outbreak, which is not the first of its kind. Previous outbreaks have occurred in Uganda, the DRC, and the Central African Republic.
The current situation, however, has raised alarms due to the rapid increase in confirmed cases and deaths.
In Uganda, the Ebola Treatment Unit at Mulago Hospital was established within six hours of the outbreak’s declaration. Dr.
Tedros praised the quality of clinical care provided there, highlighting Uganda’s preparedness and efficiency in managing the outbreak.
President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for regional cooperation and prompt public health interventions. Officials commented on the matter.
Tedros during his visit.
President Museveni also pointed to Uganda’s experience in mobilizing communities to confront public health challenges, such as during the fight against HIV.
The WHO has determined that the outbreak in the DRC and Uganda constitutes a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC), though it does not meet the criteria of a pandemic emergency under the International Health Regulations (IHR).
This classification underscores the severity of the situation and the need for a coordinated global response.
As of June 15, Uganda has reported 19 confirmed cases and one probable case, largely linked to cross-border transmission from the DRC.
The response to the Ebola outbreak is taking place in a challenging environment marked by humanitarian pressures, insecurity, and significant cross — border movement.
Despite these challenges, a senior WHO official expressed confidence that the outbreak can be contained, citing strong community cooperation, newly opened laboratories, and the recovery and discharge of some patients.
The Ebola outbreak serves as a stark reminder of the importance of regional cooperation and preparedness in addressing public health emergencies.
As the situation evolves, the international community remains vigilant, hoping to prevent further spread and protect the health and well — being of populations in the affected regions.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: reliefweb
Source: World Health Organization
