**WHO Calls for Increased Support Amidst Largest Ebola Outbreak in DRC**
*Published on April 8, 2026*
The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a call for heightened support to combat an escalating Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which has quickly become the largest recorded outbreak in the country’s history. The outbreak was declared less than three months ago, on May 15, 2026, following a series of fatalities in the northeastern province of Ituri.
As of the latest reports, the DRC has confirmed a staggering 3,802 cases of Ebola, with 1,707 fatalities. While 727 individuals have recovered, there are still 275 suspected cases under investigation. The health authorities are actively monitoring approximately 17,000 contacts, with over 80% receiving daily follow-ups to ensure early detection and containment of the virus.
WHO spokesman Tarik Jasarevic addressed the media in Geneva, emphasizing the urgent need for additional resources to effectively manage the outbreak. "The outbreak is unfortunately still expanding beyond the capacity of the response," he stated. Jasarevic highlighted that financial support, along with other essential resources, is critical to enhance response efforts, which include treatment capacity, field investigation teams, safe burial teams, and community workers.
The outbreak has predominantly affected the Ituri province, where nearly 90% of the cases have been reported. The neighbouring North Kivu province has also seen a significant number of cases. The virus is transmitted through close contact with infected individuals and their bodily fluids, making containment efforts particularly challenging.
The current outbreak is attributed to the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus, which poses additional difficulties as there are no proven safe and effective treatments or vaccines available for this specific strain. However, Vasee Moorthy, who leads the WHO's research and development blueprint program, indicated that several trials for potential therapies, vaccines, and post-exposure antiviral drugs are currently underway, with early results showing promise.
The WHO’s call for support comes at a critical time as health officials work to contain the virus's spread and protect communities. The organization is urging international partners and governments to contribute resources that can bolster the ongoing response efforts.
As the situation evolves, the focus remains on areas where the virus is currently spreading and where it could potentially spread next. The WHO's coordinated response aims to mitigate the impact of the outbreak and safeguard public health in the DRC.
The international community's response will be crucial in determining the effectiveness of containment measures and the overall management of this unprecedented outbreak.