GENEVA, May 20 : The World Health Organization declared the Ebola outbreak in parts of Central Africa a major international health concern after suspected infections crossed 500 cases.
The outbreak, affecting the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, has already resulted in more than 130 suspected deaths, prompting emergency health measures and international coordination efforts.
Health authorities warned that the disease was spreading rapidly in remote regions with limited medical infrastructure. Emergency treatment centres are being established in the affected areas while neighbouring countries have strengthened border screening procedures.
The United States imposed temporary travel restrictions on individuals arriving from outbreak zones, citing concerns about international transmission risks. Several countries also began reviewing airport health protocols and quarantine preparedness.
Medical experts emphasised the importance of rapid testing, vaccination campaigns and public awareness initiatives to contain the virus before it spreads further.
Humanitarian organisations expressed concern that ongoing regional instability and poor healthcare infrastructure could hamper containment efforts in vulnerable communities.