New york: The United Nations Secretary-General has issued a strong condemnation of global indifference as the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) reaches alarming levels. With more than 5,600 cases and over 2,700 deaths reported across six provinces since mid-May, the crisis demands immediate international attention and resources. According to United Nations, the World Health Organization (WHO) has managed to slow the spread of the virus, but reversing the current trend remains a challenge. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reports that prevention efforts have started in neighboring Burundi. Despite these efforts, the humanitarian response is only 48 percent funded, with current resources projected to last only weeks as the epidemic expands faster than containment efforts. The UN Secretary-General emphasized that while the global community knows how to contain Ebola and save lives, it must also combat the "virus of indifference." He stressed the urgent ne ed for an additional $1.1 billion to continue life-saving operations, which are threatened by funding shortages. The region's decades-long conflict has displaced populations and weakened health infrastructure, complicating the response effort. In Ituri province alone, over one million people are displaced, and more than 12 million require humanitarian aid. Insecurity further complicates the response, with over 40 healthcare workers losing their lives and treatment centers under attack. Humanitarian teams face the dual challenge of confronting both the virus and ongoing violence. Civil society, including local artists and social media influencers, has mobilized to raise awareness. Renowned Congolese musician Lokua Kanza, serving as a UNICEF ambassador, has urged the public to adopt preventive measures through a video shared on social media. Neighboring Burundi has not reported any confirmed Ebola cases, but remains at high risk due to its proximity to affected areas in the DRC. UN agencies are assisting Buru ndi's government in preparedness efforts, such as enhanced surveillance and training for healthcare providers and journalists. Meanwhile, the Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak in Uganda has been declared over by UN health officials and partners, following 42 consecutive days without new confirmed cases. Uganda had reported 20 confirmed cases, including two deaths, and more than 800 contacts were monitored to prevent further spread. UN agencies and partners have expanded their response efforts, deploying additional mobile burial teams and community-based teams in high-risk areas, with WHO deploying over 260 experts and delivering essential medical supplies. The World Food Programme continues to support the response through medical evacuations and logistical assistance. In Burundi, WHO and partners are aiding national authorities in updating Ebola response guidelines and enhancing laboratory procedures. Nearly 30,000 prevention posters have been distributed in three languages to inform and protect communities.
