‘It Would Be A big Mistake’: WHO Africa chief warns against underestimating Ebola virus risk

The WHO has warned that ignoring the Ebola outbreak in Congo and Uganda could prove dangerous, saying even a single infection could spark wider transmission as cases and suspected deaths continue rising.

New Delhi: The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised fresh concerns over the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and neighbouring Uganda, warning that the situation should not be underestimated despite limited global attention so far.

WHO Flags Serious Risk of Wider Spread

Speaking in Geneva, WHO Africa Director Mohamed Yakub Janabi cautioned that even one undetected case could lead to broader transmission beyond the affected regions.

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He stressed that the current outbreak involves the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus, for which there is no approved vaccine available at present. According to him, international cooperation and rapid containment efforts are critical to preventing further spread.

Janabi also said the outbreak has not received the level of attention it deserves compared to other recent global health scares, despite the risks associated with Ebola transmission.

Rising Cases and Deaths in Congo

Data released by the Democratic Republic of Congo’s health ministry showed that the outbreak has already resulted in hundreds of suspected infections.

Authorities reported around 670 suspected cases and nearly 160 suspected deaths so far. Among these, 61 infections have been officially confirmed through laboratory testing.

In neighbouring Uganda, health officials have also confirmed two Ebola cases, increasing fears about possible regional spread.

No Vaccine for Current Ebola Strain

Health experts say the Bundibugyo strain remains particularly concerning because there is currently no licensed vaccine available for protection against it.

Ebola is a severe viral disease that spreads through direct contact with infected bodily fluids, contaminated materials or the bodies of deceased patients. Common symptoms include fever, vomiting, body pain and diarrhoea.

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The WHO said efforts are underway to strengthen testing facilities, improve infection control measures and increase awareness among local communities.

Authorities Also Battling Misinformation

Janabi noted that health authorities are facing another major challenge in the form of misinformation and public distrust.

He referred to a recent incident where Ebola treatment tents were reportedly burned after tensions emerged over the handling of a victim’s body. According to officials, such incidents are making containment efforts more difficult.

He added that epidemiologists are still trying to identify the original source of the outbreak while monitoring population movement across affected areas.