The spread of Ebola in the Democratic Republic of Congo is 'deeply alarming', the medical charity Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has warned, as the head of the World Health Organization (WHO) visits the worst-affected region. At least 1,200 cases have been confirmed, with the virus now crossing into neighbouring Uganda.
The comments from MSF come as Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the WHO director-general, arrived in eastern Congo to visit communities at the epicentre of the outbreak. The WHO has reported that five patients have recovered from a rare type of Ebola in the region, and a new treatment centre has opened in the area.
“MSF warns Ebola spread in DR Congo is 'deeply alarming' as WHO chief visits region; 1,200 cases confirmed; virus spreads to Uganda; new treatment centre opens; five patients recover.”
The outbreak, which began in August 2018, has been one of the most challenging to contain due to ongoing conflict, community mistrust, and the movement of people across borders. The spread to Uganda, confirmed earlier this month, has heightened fears of a wider regional crisis.
MSF described the situation as 'deeply alarming', stressing that more resources and a coordinated international response are urgently needed. The charity has been at the forefront of the response, but has faced repeated attacks on its treatment centres.
The WHO chief's visit is intended to show solidarity with affected communities and health workers, and to assess the effectiveness of the current response. Dr Tedros has previously praised the work of local health teams and international partners, while acknowledging the immense challenges.
The opening of a new treatment centre in eastern Congo is expected to improve access to care for patients. The WHO confirmed that five patients have already recovered, a positive sign amid the escalating crisis. However, the number of new cases continues to rise, with the outbreak now the second largest in history.
The spread to Uganda has raised particular concern, as the country shares a porous border with the affected region. Ugandan authorities have already reported several cases, and are working to contain the virus with support from the WHO and other agencies.
In a separate development, concerns have grown over a proposal by US President Donald Trump to impose a quarantine on travellers from Kenya as part of broader travel restrictions. Critics argue such measures could stigmatise affected countries and undermine the public health response.
For UK readers, the immediate risk remains low. However, the outbreak underscores the importance of global health security and the UK's role in supporting international health initiatives. Travellers to affected regions are advised to monitor official travel advice from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and follow health guidance from the NHS.
The WHO has not recommended any travel or trade restrictions for the Democratic Republic of Congo or Uganda. The organisation continues to emphasise the need for a coordinated, evidence-based response to contain the outbreak before it spreads further.