KINSHASA, Democratic Republic of Congo — An Ebola outbreak in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has killed at least 131 people, with more than 513 suspected cases reported, local officials have confirmed, raising alarm over a widening public health crisis.
Health authorities say the outbreak has spread to new areas, including Nyakunde in Ituri Province, Butembo in North Kivu, and Goma, signalling broader regional transmission.
The outbreak has also been confirmed in neighbouring Uganda, where two cases and one death have been reported, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
WHO declares international health emergency
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the outbreak an international public health emergency, citing concerns over its potential to spread further across borders.
The virus strain involved is linked to the Bundibugyo variant of Ebola, a highly infectious and often deadly disease transmitted through direct contact with bodily fluids.
Health experts warn that the current situation could escalate into a much larger outbreak if containment measures fail.
Response efforts intensified
Congolese authorities say response teams have been deployed to trace infections, isolate suspected cases, and monitor new transmission zones.
Officials have urged calm, saying there is no need for panic as containment operations continue.
However, surveillance has been expanded following confirmation of new infections in previously unaffected regions.
International concern grows
The U.S. CDC has reported confirmed infections among American medical personnel working in the region.
One infected doctor, identified as Peter Stafford, is expected to be transferred to Germany for specialised treatment, according to reports.
Two other doctors exposed to the virus, including Stafford’s wife, are under quarantine and are currently asymptomatic.
Travel restrictions and monitoring
The United States government has issued a Level Four travel advisory — its highest warning — advising against travel to affected regions in DR Congo.
The CDC said it is implementing enhanced monitoring of travellers from affected areas, alongside contact tracing and increased screening at entry points.
Authorities are also considering restrictions on non-U.S. passport holders who have recently travelled through affected countries.
