RismadarVoice Reporters, May 31, 2026
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has cautioned countries against imposing travel bans and border restrictions in response to the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), warning that such measures could weaken containment efforts and discourage timely reporting of cases.
Speaking on Saturday during a briefing in Bunia, eastern DRC, WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the current outbreak presents a more complex challenge because it is being driven by the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, for which there is currently no licensed vaccine or approved treatment.
Tedros acknowledged that while DRC has successfully contained Ebola outbreaks 16 times in the past, the present situation is unfolding amid insecurity, fragile healthcare infrastructure, and communities facing heightened vulnerability.
Despite the absence of approved vaccines or treatments for the strain, he expressed cautious optimism, noting that some patients had already recovered through early medical intervention and supportive care.
“Ebola caused by the Bundibugyo virus can be survived with good medical care, and some people here in Ituri have already recovered. Seeking care early makes a real difference,” he said.
The WHO chief said the agency is working with partners to accelerate clinical research into vaccines and treatment options while supporting the Congolese government’s response strategy.
Tedros also urged countries that introduced travel restrictions to reconsider those measures, arguing that restrictions could hinder emergency operations and reduce openness in sharing outbreak information.
“These measures make the response harder, and they discourage the transparency that saves lives,” he warned.
He emphasised that community participation remains central to ending the outbreak, stressing that residents understand local realities and must be actively involved in response efforts.
According to the WHO, engagement with women’s groups, religious leaders, business communities, and young people forms part of a broader strategy to strengthen trust and improve public cooperation.
Tedros further stressed that other essential health and humanitarian services must continue alongside Ebola interventions to prevent wider health consequences in affected areas.
Addressing concerns around burial practices, he acknowledged the emotional and cultural challenges families face but reiterated that handling bodies of Ebola victims remains a significant transmission risk.
“While we grieve for those we have lost, we must do everything we can so that we do not lose another,” he said.
WHO reaffirmed its commitment to supporting DRC beyond the current outbreak through continued investment in hospitals, laboratories, health workers, and long-term health system strengthening.
