The World Health Organization has warned that an outbreak of Bundibugyo virus disease, a deadly Ebola strain, is spreading rapidly in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, with 454 deaths and 1,481 confirmed infections recorded.
WHO said the outbreak is being driven by sustained transmission in the conflict affected eastern provinces of Congo and could pose a serious threat to neighboring countries because of cross border movement, fragile health systems and humanitarian pressures.
As of July 1, Congo had recorded 1,460 confirmed cases and 452 deaths, while Uganda had reported 20 confirmed cases and two deaths.
France has also confirmed an imported case involving a doctor who returned from Congo after treating infected patients.
WHO said the outbreak is expanding at a dangerous pace, especially in areas affected by insecurity and displacement.
The agency warned that conditions on the ground are creating serious barriers to surveillance and response, raising the risk of undetected transmission.
Health authorities said the latest figures represented an increase of 564 infections and 220 deaths in less than two weeks, highlighting the speed and severity of the crisis.
The epicenter remains Ituri Province, which accounts for more than 91 per cent of all cases. Major hotspots include Bunia, Rwampara and Mongbwalu.
WHO said 102 health workers had also been infected, with 25 deaths among them, raising concern over gaps in infection prevention and control.
More than 10,800 contacts are under monitoring in Congo, while Uganda has completed surveillance of more than 800 contacts with no new cases reported since June 21.
French authorities said the infected doctor self reported symptoms on arrival at Charles de Gaulle Airport and was immediately isolated.
WHO praised the early reporting and swift isolation, saying such vigilance at borders can significantly reduce transmission risks.
Bundibugyo virus disease causes symptoms such as fever, weakness, vomiting, diarrhea and internal bleeding. There is currently no approved vaccine or specific treatment for the strain.
The agency warned that overcrowded camps for displaced persons, weak health infrastructure and insecurity in eastern Congo could worsen the outbreak.
WHO advised against travel or trade restrictions on Congo and Uganda but urged stronger border surveillance and community based response systems.
The agency classified the risk in Congo as very high, high in Uganda and neighboring border countries, and low globally.
Global health officials said the coming weeks would be critical in determining whether the outbreak can be contained before it spreads further.
