WHO Chief Highlights Recovery from Rare Ebola Strain

On May 31, 2026, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus announced that five individuals have recovered from a rare Ebola strain, emphasizing the significance of early medical intervention. Despite the absence of an approved treatment or vaccine for the Bundibugyo virus, which is the cause of the current outbreak, recovery is still possible.

The WHO had previously confirmed the first recovery of a patient from the Bundibugyo virus, marking a notable milestone since the outbreak began. Tedros stated, “Four individuals will be discharged today, while another was discharged two days ago,” during the inauguration of a new Ebola treatment center in Bunia, Ituri province, eastern Congo.

He reiterated, “We are working on vaccines and treatments, but people can recover from Ebola.” The treatment center aims to bolster the region’s response to the outbreak.

According to the WHO, at least 906 suspected Ebola cases and 223 deaths have been reported in Congo. There are 134 confirmed cases and 18 confirmed deaths in Congo and Uganda. Uganda’s Health Ministry reported nine confirmed cases, including one death.

Doctors Without Borders highlighted that the virus spreads faster than the current response measures, urging expanded testing and increased aid worker deployment. Local residents have expressed frustration over strict medical protocols, leading to attacks on health centers.

Tedros emphasized community involvement in combating the outbreak, stating, “Coming to health facilities early when symptoms appear allows for recovery and necessary support.” He called for collective efforts to stop Ebola and facilitate recovery for patients.

Challenges arise from regional conflicts, including attacks by the Allied Democratic Forces and ethnic militias. Ebola cases have emerged in North Kivu and South Kivu, where the M23 rebel group controls key cities. The situation is complicated by these political tensions.

During the opening ceremony, Pierre Akilimali, Incident Manager at Congo’s National Institute of Public Health, expressed hope for containing the outbreak. “With symptomatic treatment, we witness patient recovery. The virus here isn’t as complex as those before,” he stated. Davin Ambitapio, a doctor, affirmed the potential for control with partner support.