Geneva — The WHO regional director for Africa warned Friday that the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo should not be underestimated, saying a single case could allow the virus to spread beyond DRC and Uganda.
Mohamed Yakub Janabi told reporters at WHO headquarters that the current outbreak involves the Bundibugyo strain, for which no vaccine is available. He urged countries and aid organizations to work together to contain the threat: “It would be a big mistake to underestimate it… So I would really encourage everyone, let’s help each other, we can bring this thing into control.”
Janabi also noted that the Congo outbreak has received relatively little global attention compared with a recent hantavirus event this month, which affected cruise ship passengers from 23 countries.
On the ground, Red Cross teams have been disinfecting hospitals and intensifying control measures in affected areas, including Rwampara outside Bunia, as health agencies step up contact tracing, case isolation and community outreach to limit transmission.
The WHO appeal focused on rapid cooperation, surveillance and resources to prevent cross-border spread. With no licensed vaccine for the Bundibugyo strain, public health measures remain the primary tool to contain the outbreak and protect neighboring countries.
Reported by Reuters. Updated at 05:35 PM May 22, 2026 IST.
