WHO chief reports 5 Ebola recoveries as a new treatment center opens in eastern Congo

The World Health Organization (WHO) announced five recoveries from the Bundibugyo Ebola virus in eastern Congo, with four patients discharged on Sunday and one the day prior. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus highlighted the milestone during the opening of a new Ebola treatment center in Bunia, Ituri province, noting that recoveries are possible despite the absence of approved vaccines or treatments for this rare strain. The outbreak has seen 134 confirmed cases in Congo and neighboring Uganda, including 18 deaths as of May 29. The Bundibugyo virus, responsible for the current outbreak, has no approved treatment or vaccine, yet five patients have survived with supportive care, including symptom management like fluids and pain relief. Baraka Bulambulu, a recovered patient, described community fear and isolation during his illness, while nurse Ezo Étienne warned that early symptoms like vomiting and headaches should not be ignored due to misinformation. Doctors Without Borders (MSF) reported that the virus spreads faster than response efforts, citing delays in testing, aid worker deployment, and supply access. Local distrust and clashes with medical protocols—such as burial practices—have led to attacks on health centers, complicating containment. Tedros emphasized community involvement as critical, urging early medical intervention to prevent further spread. Security remains a major obstacle, with rebel groups like the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) operating in affected regions. The ADF killed seven people in Beni, North Kivu province, on Saturday, further straining response efforts. The outbreak has also extended to North Kivu and South Kivu provinces, compounding the challenges of coordination and access in conflict zones.