Ebola infections are spreading rapidly in the African nations of Congo and Uganda, raising alarm among health authorities. More than 300 people are suspected to have been affected so far, and 88 deaths have been reported.
In response, World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has declared the outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.
Health officials note that Ebola can spread quickly from person to person through bodily fluids such as vomit, blood or semen. The disease is often fatal, and the report said there are no approved treatments or vaccines.
While the outbreak is considered dangerous and highly transmissible, neighbouring countries have been advised that it is not a global pandemic like COVID-19. They have also been told there is no need to close international borders or impose trade restrictions.
