WHO director-general concerned after Ebola outbreak area visit

The World Health Organization’s director-general has expressed deep concern over the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda, calling it “the third largest on record.” Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus shared his unease after returning from his second visit to the region since the outbreak was declared on May 15. As of June 11, at least 708 confirmed cases had been reported in the two countries, with 141 deaths. The situation remains dire, with challenges that extend beyond medical response.

Field staff in the DRC have faced death threats, and contact tracing efforts are far below what is needed to contain the outbreak. Only 28.4% of known case contacts had been followed up by June 11. Local officials and community members have questioned the urgency of Ebola, with some dismissing it as a hoax or claiming foreign interests are exaggerating its threat. “When the community is not taking it as its priority, it’s very hard,” Tedros said in an exclusive interview with STAT.

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Community leaders in northeastern DRC have voiced frustration with the global focus on Ebola, arguing that the world only cares about their region when the virus threatens to spread beyond its borders. With long-standing conflict, displacement, and widespread hunger, many prioritize other health and safety concerns. “Ebola is a lesser evil. That’s how they put it,” Tedros noted, reflecting on conversations with local leaders.

Residents in the DRC often cite past investments in Ebola containment as proof that global aid is conditional. “You invested a lot of money then. So you contained it. You prevented it from coming to you. But what did we get in return? Nothing,” some said.

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Tedros emphasized that political solutions are critical to addressing the outbreak. Without peace in the region, improving surveillance and healthcare systems will remain impossible. “There should be a political solution,” he said. “Otherwise, if conflict continues, surveillance can’t improve.”

Community leaders and displaced populations have repeatedly called for an end to the decades-long conflict. High rates of displacement make contact tracing difficult, as people move frequently and are hard to locate. “Their displacement is high, and you can’t find the people,” Tedros acknowledged.

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When asked about the skepticism of local residents toward Ebola containment efforts, Tedros stressed the importance of listening to communities. “I’m not here to dictate. I’m here to listen to you,” he said. “You know your problems. You know the solutions.” This approach, he argued, is key to building trust and cooperation.

The WHO director-general acknowledged that the outbreak is “very difficult to contain,” citing low contact tracing rates and persistent mistrust. He reiterated that addressing the outbreak requires more than medical interventions—it demands political will, humanitarian aid, and a commitment to strengthening health systems in the region.