The Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has stated that the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo is “very complex” but still “can be stopped.

” He travelled to Kinshasa to support response efforts as health workers confront a rapidly spreading outbreak in a volatile region marked by armed conflict, population displacement, and widespread distrust of medical authorities.Officials have reported approximately 906 suspected cases and 223 suspected deaths linked to a rare strain of the Ebola virus (Bundibugyo virus).The outbreak is believed to have circulated for weeks before being formally identified in mid-May, complicating containment efforts.

Humanitarian and medical responders face significant obstacles, including insecurity from armed groups such as the Allied Democratic Force and other militias operating in Ituri province and surrounding regions.

These conditions have made it difficult to trace contacts, deliver care, and maintain safe burial practices, which have sometimes clashed with local customs and led to attacks on health facilities.

Health authorities also report that lack of equipment and limited supplies have hindered frontline medical staff, with some hospitals initially relying on expired protective gear.

International support has increased, with the European Union sending medical aid and the United States announcing more than $112 million in total assistance.Canada has also committed $8 million to the global response.Despite these efforts, WHO officials warn that transmission has outpaced response capacity in some areas.There has been one confirmed recovery during the outbreak, and several other patients are expected to survive.However, there is currently no approved vaccine or specific treatment for this strain, which has a fatality rate estimated between 30% and 50%.Authorities have discouraged strict travel bans, arguing they may hinder response efforts.

Meanwhile, new containment measures and increased medical coordination are being deployed in affected regions in an attempt to bring the outbreak under control.