WHO warns: Ebola outbreak could spread faster than expected

2026-05-19 19:30:00, Kosova & Bota CNA

The World Health Organization has raised the alarm that the current Ebola outbreak in Africa may be spreading faster than initially estimated, as investigations point to unidentified cases in some areas.

In the Ituri province of the Democratic Republic of Congo, which is the epicentre of the outbreak, residents have expressed fear about the situation on the ground. According to evidence gathered by BBC News, many infected people are rapidly deteriorating, increasing concern in the community.

Health officials report hundreds of suspected cases and over a hundred deaths, while a fatal case has also been confirmed in neighboring Uganda, raising fears of cross-border spread.

WHO representatives, including Dr. Anne Ancia, have stated that the situation is becoming clearer over time, but also more worrying, as the infection appears to have spread to other areas beyond the initial epicenter.

According to her, frequent population movements and unsafe conditions in some regions are making it very difficult to control the virus.

Meanwhile, a modeling published by the MRC Center for Global Analysis of Infectious Diseases in London suggests that the real number of cases could be significantly higher than that officially reported, not excluding the possibility of over 1,000 infected.

The situation has also caused reactions from international authorities and humanitarian organizations.

The Red Cross warns that the outbreak could escalate quickly if early identification of cases and information to communities is not improved.

President Félix Tshisekedi has called on citizens for calm and vigilance, while local authorities are strengthening control and monitoring measures.

In several countries in the region, including Uganda and Rwanda, preventive measures such as stricter border controls and instructions to avoid physical contact have been taken.

The WHO, which has declared an international emergency over the situation, emphasizes that it is collaborating with local governments to curb the spread of the virus and strengthen health systems.

Ebola disease is spread through contact with the bodily fluids of infected people and can cause severe symptoms such as fever, vomiting, diarrhea and in some cases internal bleeding.

Experts warn that population movements and lack of access to protective equipment remain key factors making it difficult to control the situation./ CNA