WHO Declares Ebola Outbreak in DR Congo and Uganda a Global Health Emergency

As of Saturday, DRC’s Ituri province reported 80 suspected deaths, 8 confirmed cases, and 246 suspected cases across Bunia, Rwampara and Mongbwalu. Uganda’s capital Kampala recorded two confirmed cases, including one death, in people who traveled from the DRC. A confirmed case was also reported in Kinshasa from a person returning from Ituri. 

WHO says that the outbreak does not meet pandemic criteria but poses a high risk to neighboring countries. It has urged countries to activate emergency plans, increase cross-border screening, and monitor contacts for 21 days. The agency advised against travel and trade restrictions, warning they could push movement underground and worsen the response.