Ebola outbreak update and Bunia airport reopening in DR Congo

The World Health Organization (WHO) reported 116 suspected and 321 confirmed cases of the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The outbreak, which is the 17th recorded in the country, has resulted in 41 deaths and six recoveries. Additionally, nine confirmed cases and one death linked to the same strain have been reported in Uganda. The African Centers for Disease Control and Prevention officially declared the outbreak on May 15, prompting the WHO to declare a public health emergency of international concern. Following a temporary suspension of commercial flights on May 23, the DRC Ministry of Transport has announced the gradual reopening of the Bunia airport in Ituri province. Operations will resume under strict health protocols, including mandatory temperature screenings for all passengers and required hand washing. Individuals exhibiting symptoms such as fever will be prohibited from traveling. Health officials currently rank this incident as the third-largest Ebola outbreak in the history of the DRC.