An Ebola outbreak driven by an uncommon strain has killed 65 people across the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, according to the Africa CDC. Complications include urban settings in Bunia and Rwampara, intense mining-related population movement, militia clashes, and gaps in contact tracing. Dr. Jean Kaseya, director-general of the Africa CDC, warned the virus could spill over into South Sudan as well.

The WHO detected suspected cases in the DRC and dispatched a team on May 5, releasing $500,000 from its Contingency Fund for Emergencies. The US CDC, led by acting head Jay Bhattacharya, is offering technical assistance through offices in both countries. Bhattacharya noted the agency was only informed about the outbreak the day before the briefing.

Regional coordination is the priority now. Kaseya stressed that rapid cooperation between the DRC, Uganda, South Sudan, and international partners is essential to contain the outbreak before it spreads further across borders.