AGP Executive Report

Ebola Surge in Eastern DRC: The Democratic Republic of Congo has confirmed 389 Ebola cases, including 63 deaths, with infections now reported across 17 of 36 health zones in Ituri—the outbreak epicentre—while North Kivu and South Kivu also record new infections. Safe Burials Under Attack: Health officials say residents attacked an Ebola burial team in Katana (South Kivu), forcing responders to abandon a coffin and raising fears of fresh transmission; similar cemetery violence in Bunia left people injured. Aid and Supplies Scaling Up: Australia pledged about US$3.6 million to support the Red Cross and WHO for Ebola care, surveillance, and water and sanitation, while partners like WaterStep push disinfectant tools for frontline response. Community and Misinformation Fight: The Bishop of Goma says churches are key to countering rumours and improving prevention, as fear and resistance continue to disrupt care. Regional Pressure: Uganda confirmed one new case, bringing its total to 16, as WHO and partners urge calm and faster, coordinated preparedness. Security Fallout: In the same eastern region, Islamic State-linked ADF fighters killed 16 civilians in Beni, adding to the strain on health operations.

Ebola Update (DRC): Confirmed Ebola cases in the Democratic Republic of Congo have climbed to 363, with 62 deaths, while Uganda reports four recoveries. WHO says the virus “initially moved ahead” but response efforts are now “catching up,” even as gaps remain in testing, contact tracing, and community trust. Regional Coordination: East African Community health ministers agreed to harmonise Ebola surveillance and protective measures across airports, ports, and land borders, setting up a regional technical taskforce to coordinate the response. Community Frontline: In Ituri, traditional healers claim they can treat Ebola, while the Bishop of Goma says churches are trusted locally but have faced attacks on treatment centres and rising tensions over burial restrictions. Cross-Border Fallout: Spain has cancelled DR Congo’s World Cup warm-up against Chile over Ebola fears, and the team is now seeking an alternative venue. Kenya-US Ebola Facility Row: Kenya’s President William Ruto defended allowing the US to build an Ebola quarantine facility despite protests and court orders, saying it is the “right thing.” Humanitarian Pressure: Aid groups warn the outbreak is worsening amid conflict and displacement, with funding shortfalls threatening the scale of the response.

Ebola Crisis in Eastern DRC: WHO says the fight against the Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak is “catching up,” but warns the virus had a “big head-start” and the response is still behind; confirmed cases in DR Congo sit at 344 with 60 deaths, while suspected cases have dropped sharply to 116 after many tests came back negative. Conflict Hits Health Response: ISIS-linked ADF attacks in North Kivu around Beni have killed at least 16 and other raids have left more than 30 dead, worsening access for burial teams and care. Breakdown on the Ground: A burial team was attacked in Katana, and 11 patients fled isolation in Ituri as the outbreak spreads into new health zones. WHO Push on Treatments and Vaccines: WHO convened experts on Bundibugyo vaccines and therapeutics, urging products to be used only in clinical trials; rVSV Bundibugyo is flagged as the most promising candidate. Regional and Global Pressure: UN rights experts warn Indigenous Peoples face heightened vulnerability, while international travel rules and aid gaps continue to disrupt containment. Sports Disrupted by Ebola Fears: DR Congo’s World Cup warm-up vs Chile in Spain was cancelled over Ebola concerns, adding uncertainty to preparations.

Ebola Update (DRC): The WHO says the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo has reached 344 confirmed cases and 60 deaths, warning it had a “big head-start” but that the response is now “catching up.” Public Health Pressure: WHO also reports a sharp drop in suspected cases to 116 after many are ruled out, while health agencies stress the outbreak is still serious and evolving. Conflict Makes Response Harder: Médecins Sans Frontières warns that war, fear, and insecurity in eastern DRC are blocking access to patients and slowing containment, with teams needing more testing capacity and safer care pathways. Regional Spillover Concerns: Neighbouring countries and partners are tightening screening and preparedness, while Nigeria says it has no confirmed Ebola cases but is boosting border checks. World Cup Fallout: In Spain, a DR Congo–Chile friendly was cancelled over Ebola fears, though the coach floated the idea of playing behind closed doors. International Support: China dispatched an anti-Ebola medical expert team to Kinshasa for a three-month mission to support DRC’s response.

Ebola Update in DRC: The WHO and DRC health ministry sharply cut the number of suspected Ebola cases under investigation to 116, while confirmed cases stand at 321 with 48 deaths and six recoveries, after hundreds of earlier “suspected” listings were ruled out as other illnesses. Fear in Displacement Camps: In Ituri, displaced families warn they could be “wiped out” if Ebola reaches crowded camps, as Tedros says the outbreak risks a “catastrophic collision of disease and conflict.” Kenya Quarantine Fallout: Protests against a US-backed Ebola quarantine facility in Nanyuki turned deadly, with reports of two deaths after police fired; a Kenyan court extended a block and ordered the government to disclose agreements. US Sanctions on Eastern Congo Armed Groups: The US Treasury imposed new sanctions on senior commanders of M23 and FDLR, citing threats to stability in eastern DRC. Aid and Vaccines Push: The EU and WHO scaled up support for DRC and Uganda, while the US signaled it will re-engage with Gavi to unlock funding for Ebola response and vaccine access. World Cup Disruptions: Spain canceled a DR Congo pre-World Cup friendly over Ebola health concerns.

Ebola Update in DR Congo: The WHO says suspected Ebola cases in the DRC have dropped sharply to 116 from 906 after hundreds were ruled out as malaria, meningitis, typhoid or other non-Ebola fevers. Confirmed cases now stand at 321 with 48 deaths, while Uganda reports 15 confirmed cases and one death. Airport Reopens in Ituri: Bunia’s airport—key for humanitarian access to the outbreak epicentre—reopened as suspected numbers fell, with WHO Director-General Tedros having visited the region. China Steps Up: A Chinese anti-epidemic medical expert team arrived in Kinshasa for a three-month mission to support DRC’s Ebola response, focusing on case management and epidemic assessment. Kenya Fallout (Regional Spillover): Protests against a US-backed Ebola quarantine plan in Kenya turned deadly, with reports of two deaths as courts extended a block on the facility. Aid Costs Hit Hard: UNICEF warns Middle East conflict is driving up transport costs and delaying deliveries, including for Ebola response supplies to Congo.

Ebola Surge in Eastern DRC: DR Congo’s Health Ministry says confirmed Ebola cases have climbed to 343, as response teams focus on the Ituri hotspot and Bunia Airport prepares to reopen with handwashing and temperature checks to speed supplies and staff. WHO Push for Treatment and Trust: WHO chief Tedros Ghebreyesus wrapped up a visit urging civilians to seek care, stressing that people can recover and that community ownership and stronger health systems are key to stopping spread. Vaccine Race for Bundibugyo: With no licensed vaccine for the Bundibugyo strain, CEPI and partners are funding multiple vaccine efforts, including Moderna and others, to move toward trials and manufacturing. Global Worry Over Spread: Aid groups warn the outbreak may be far larger than official figures, citing delayed detection and weak contact tracing, while suspected cases are being checked abroad. Security Fallout in North Kivu: In parallel, the ADF killed civilians in Beni, underscoring how conflict continues to disrupt health operations. Kenya-US Quarantine Row: In Kenya, protests and court action have challenged a planned US-run Ebola quarantine facility at Laikipia Air Base, with KLM also suspending Uganda flights over Ebola travel curbs.

Ebola Surge in DRC: The WHO chief, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, is in eastern DR Congo urging faster action as suspected Bundibugyo Ebola cases climb past 1,000 and officials warn the real scale may be larger; Hope for Treatment: five Ebola patients—four nurses and a lab worker—have recovered and been discharged in Bunia, a sign that timely care can save lives; Vaccine Race: CEPI is backing Moderna with up to $50m to speed a Bundibugyo vaccine toward early trials, while other non-profits push rVSV vaccine development; Cross-Border Pressure: Africa CDC warns that lack of licensed Bundibugyo vaccines plus intense movement across DR Congo, Uganda and South Sudan could fuel wider spread; Global Spillover Checks: Brazil is investigating two Ebola-like cases from DR Congo and Uganda, with one testing negative for Ebola but still isolated; Regional Politics & Security: Uganda says it will keep fighting ADF rebels in eastern Congo while following Ebola prevention rules, as WHO calls for ceasefires to let health teams reach communities; Local Impact: Canada’s Ebola travel restrictions have disrupted Congolese plans in Montreal, blocking at least one student’s return.

Ebola Response in Ituri: WHO chief Tedros Ghebreyesus visited Bunia, urging early care and safe burials as the Bundibugyo outbreak accelerates; confirmed DRC cases rose to 282 with 42 deaths, while WHO reported five recoveries (four nurses discharged, one lab worker) and warned community trust is key. Travel Curbs Debate: Tedros urged countries to reconsider travel bans and border closures, saying they can discourage transparency and make response harder. Regional Coordination: The East African Community will hold an emergency health ministers meeting June 1–2 to coordinate surveillance, labs, rapid response teams, and risk communication across the DRC–Uganda spillover. Aid and Misinformation Pressure: Africa CDC says over 1,100 suspected cases are under investigation in DRC and Uganda, while medics and aid groups warn the response is lagging and rumors are worsening stigma and resistance. Ebola Goes Global Watch: Brazil and Italy investigated suspected cases in travelers from the outbreak region, with Brazil reporting meningitis and malaria diagnoses while keeping patients isolated. Security Fallout: Uganda said it will continue joint operations against ADF rebels in eastern DRC, but with Ebola prevention steps in place.

Ebola Surge in Eastern DRC: Africa CDC says suspected Ebola cases in DR Congo and Uganda have topped 1,100, with 263 confirmed infections and 43 deaths as of Saturday, while health ministers back a $319m regional response plan. WHO Pushes Community Trust: WHO chief Tedros Ghebreyesus opened a new treatment centre in Bunia and urged residents to treat containment as “everybody’s business,” warning that travel bans and border closures can undermine transparency and access. Recoveries Offer Hope: WHO reported five recoveries from the rare Bundibugyo strain, including the first documented confirmed recovery in this outbreak, as four patients were set to be discharged. Conflict Complicates Care: Uganda says it will keep joint operations against the ADF in eastern DRC, even as Ebola spreads, citing ongoing attacks and abductions; WHO warns insecurity, displacement and mistrust are slowing response. Cross-Border Alarm: Regional leaders are convening emergency East African Community talks to coordinate surveillance and response across borders as the outbreak reaches Uganda. Health Warnings Abroad: Brazil is monitoring suspected Ebola cases from DRC and Uganda, while Mexico and other countries tighten travel rules ahead of major events. Security and Human Toll: In North Kivu, ADF fighters killed at least seven people in an attack on the Twa community, underscoring how violence and disease are colliding in the same areas.

Ebola Surge in Eastern DR Congo: The WHO chief, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, arrived in Bunia, Ituri, saying the outbreak can be stopped but warning the response is lagging behind a fast-moving surge. Numbers and Strain: Authorities report 1,028 suspected cases and 225 confirmed, with 223 suspected deaths; the Bundibugyo strain has no approved vaccine or treatment. Aid and Funding Pressure: Tedros urged more international support, saying the WHO has received only about a third of what it needs, while MSF warned testing and logistics gaps mean the true scale is unclear. Community Trust vs. Protocols: MSF and WHO both stressed “community ownership” and tackling mistrust and misinformation, as anger over burial rules has led to attacks on health facilities. Regional Spillover and Borders: Uganda has closed its border with DR Congo and ordered quarantine for arrivals; Kenya and other countries have tightened screening and travel advisories. Local Reality Check: DR Congo’s information minister Patrick Muyaya told ABC News there’s no need to panic, citing past experience handling Ebola outbreaks.

Ebola Update (DRC): The WHO says the Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak in DR Congo has reached 906 suspected cases and 223 suspected deaths under investigation, with a 30–50% death rate among confirmed cases; the first patient has been discharged after two negative tests, but WHO warns the peak is still unclear as surveillance improves. Cross-Border Spread: Uganda reports nine confirmed cases (including imported infections), while several Gulf countries and others tighten travel rules. Vaccines & Treatments: WHO is prioritizing two vaccine candidates and multiple treatment options for clinical trials only, as there is still no licensed cure or vaccine specifically for this strain. Aid & Response on the Ground: UNICEF has airlifted 100+ tons of emergency supplies to Congo, and Action Against Hunger is supporting frontline facilities in Ituri as misinformation drives families to hide sick relatives. Security & Trust: In eastern Congo, a rebuilt Ebola treatment centre follows an earlier torching by protesters, underscoring how conflict and distrust are complicating care. World Cup Fallout: As FIFA World Cup travel nears, the US, Canada and Mexico roll out coordinated Ebola entry restrictions, while Kenya’s court temporarily blocks a US plan for an Ebola quarantine facility for exposed Americans. Regional Preparedness: Nigeria’s NCDC orders states into emergency readiness over high importation risk, and Zambia’s border health teams step up screening despite no confirmed cases.

Ebola Update (DRC): WHO says the Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak in eastern DR Congo has 906 suspected cases and 223 suspected deaths under investigation, alongside 125 confirmed cases and 17 confirmed deaths across Ituri, North Kivu and South Kivu. First Recovery: WHO also confirmed the first confirmed survivor discharged after two negative tests, with officials urging early diagnosis and supportive care as fatality among confirmed cases is estimated around 30–50%. Uganda Spillover: Uganda reported two more Ebola cases linked to the DRC outbreak, bringing confirmed cases there to nine. Community Trust: Reports from Ituri highlight how fear, rumors, and disputes over burials are undermining response efforts, while Red Cross outreach focuses on safe, dignified burials and early symptom recognition. Aid Push: UNICEF began airlifting emergency supplies to DR Congo, including PPE, medicines and hygiene materials, to support nearly 100,000 people amid displacement and fragile services. Regional Pressure: WHO chief Tedros arrived in Kinshasa as the outbreak strains the health system, and the crisis continues to drive cross-border alerts and travel restrictions. Kenya US Quarantine Clash: A Kenyan court temporarily halted a US plan for an Ebola quarantine facility for exposed Americans, citing public health risks and lack of transparency.

Ebola Emergency in DRC: WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus warned the Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak in eastern DR Congo could become “deadliest on record” without urgent action, as conflict, displacement, food insecurity and mistrust keep response teams from reaching communities; he urged warring parties to declare a ceasefire and said travel bans don’t help much. WHO Treatment Push: WHO recommended clinical trials for several experimental options against the Bundibugyo strain, including monoclonal antibodies and an antiviral, stressing products should be used only in trials while surveillance and contact tracing continue. Aid and Supplies: UNICEF said more than 100 tons of EU-backed emergency supplies have arrived in Ituri, including protective gear, medicines and hygiene items, as the situation remains “extremely worrying.” World Cup Fallout: With Ebola fears rising, the US, Canada and Mexico announced aligned travel measures for people arriving from high-risk African regions ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026, including Canada’s 90-day entry ban for residents of DR Congo, Uganda and South Sudan and 21-day quarantine rules. US–Kenya Quarantine Plan: Kenya approved a US plan to open an Ebola quarantine facility at an air force base in Laikipia for Americans exposed in the DRC, but Kenyan doctors and rights groups have criticized the move.

Ebola Response in Ituri: WHO chief Tedros Ghebreyesus is heading to Bunia, saying “Ebola is now back” and urging a ceasefire so health workers can reach communities as the 17th outbreak spreads hardest in Ituri; Vaccine Push: Africa CDC says a Bundibugyo vaccine and medicine should be ready by end of 2026, while UNICEF warns insecurity, displacement and misinformation are blocking progress; Aid and Shortages: EU-donated supplies have started reaching Bunia, but health workers report equipment gaps and unsafe conditions, with reports of attacks on facilities and “chains of contamination”; Numbers Climbing: WHO reports 10 confirmed and 223 suspected deaths in DRC out of more than 1,000 suspected cases, with suspected deaths nearing 220; Regional Borders and World Cup: Uganda has closed its border with DRC over Ebola fears, and US, Mexico and Canada are aligning travel measures for World Cup visitors from high-risk areas. US Funding: The US added $80m to its Ebola response, bringing total aid to $112m.

Ebola Surge in Eastern DRC: The DRC’s Ministry of Health says suspected Ebola cases have now topped 1,000, reaching 1,077 suspected cases with 121 confirmed infections and 246 deaths, as the rare Bundibugyo strain spreads across Ituri, North Kivu and South Kivu. WHO Warns Conflict Is Blocking Response: WHO chief Tedros calls it a “catastrophic collision” of war and disease, saying clashes, displacement and attacks on health facilities are severing containment corridors and making contact tracing nearly impossible. Uganda Tightens Borders: Uganda has closed its border with the DRC and imposed strict curbs, citing confirmed cases and fears of wider regional spread. US Quarantine Plan for Exposed Americans: The US says it will not allow Ebola cases into the country and is preparing a quarantine facility in Kenya for Americans exposed or testing positive, while CDC expands airport screening efforts. Humanitarian Pressure: Aid groups and WHO stress that without safe humanitarian access and a ceasefire, the outbreak will keep accelerating—especially in hard-hit Ituri. World Cup Disruption: FIFA and FECOFA say the DRC team is cleared under US health protocols, but Ebola travel rules have already triggered ticket refund requests.