WHO Leads Response to Deadly Ebola Outbreak in DR Congo Amid Regional Alert

A new Ebola virus outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has prompted health alerts from the US CDC and the World Health Organization, with 37 confirmed cases and 19 deaths reported initially, escalating to 48 confirmed and probable cases and 31 deaths in southwestern Kasai province. Ebola, caused by viruses of the Orthoebolavirus family, has a high fatality rate of approximately 50%, with symptoms appearing 2 to 21 days after exposure, including fever, muscle pain, and bleeding. The DRC, currently facing conflict and instability, is challenged in its response efforts, exacerbated by significant foreign aid cuts from the US and other nations, which experts warn could undermine progress and worsen the crisis. Neighboring countries, particularly Angola, are on high alert and are strengthening surveillance and preparedness to prevent cross-border spread, with vaccination campaigns ongoing in affected zones. Health organizations stress the importance of global cooperation and sustained funding to contain the outbreak effectively while highlighting that viruses do not respect political boundaries. The situation remains urgent as the DRC battles both the Ebola outbreak and regional conflict, underscoring the need for coordinated humanitarian and health interventions.