Which measures are currently being taken?

Q: Which measures are currently being taken?

The WHO and local authorities are expanding mobile observation teams, training health personnel, and supporting awareness campaigns in order to increase the monitoring rate.

Geneva, August 1, 2026 The WHO is raising the alarm about insufficient monitoring of contacts in the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where, according to specialists, at most 80 percent of contacts are being observed over a period of three weeks. The World Health Organization (WHO) has pointed to the escalating situation surrounding the current Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo. According to the organization, at most 80 percent of contacts of infected individuals are currently being monitored for a possible infection over the necessary period of three weeks. This puts the rate well below the threshold that experts consider necessary for an effective containment of the virus. According to specialists, a monitoring rate of 95 percent of contacts is needed in order to effectively interrupt the spread of the Ebola virus. The gap between the current figure and this target is considered one of the central risk factors for a further escalation of the outbreak. In recent weeks, the WHO has repeatedly emphasized the importance of seamless follow-up, particularly in regions with limited health infrastructure. ## Why 95 Percent Contact Monitoring Is Decisive Ebola is one of the most dangerous viral hemorrhagic fevers. The disease is transmitted through bodily fluids and is fatal in a significant proportion of those affected. Consistent monitoring of contacts—that is, people who have had direct contact with infected individuals—is considered one of the most effective measures for breaking chains of transmission and preventing new outbreaks. The insufficient follow-up has several causes. In parts of the affected areas, health facilities are only reachable to a limited extent, mistrust of medical personnel is sometimes high, and mobile teams encounter logistical limits when working in hard-to-access regions. Armed conflicts and displacement in some provinces also make the work of aid workers more difficult. ## Obstacles to Follow-Up on the Ground According to its own statements, the WHO is working with national authorities and partners on the ground to expand monitoring capacities. This includes the expansion of mobile observation teams, the training of local health workers, and the use of digital recording systems. At the same time, awareness campaigns are being supported in the affected communities in order to increase willingness to cooperate. International health experts see a recurring pattern in the current situation: as soon as contact monitoring falls below the critical threshold, the risk of new chains of infection and geographic spread rises. Vaccination campaigns, which played an important role in earlier outbreaks, can also only be effective if follow-up works simultaneously. ## Countermeasures and International Support The Democratic Republic of Congo has repeatedly struggled with Ebola outbreaks for decades. Experience from recent years has shown that a combination of vaccinations, rapid diagnostics, safe burial practices, and consistent contact tracing is the most effective response to the virus. Experts stress that none of these pillars alone can stop the outbreak. In view of the existing gap in contact monitoring, international organizations are calling for increased funding and logistical support for the ongoing measures. The involvement of regional health authorities across national borders is also considered important, as the virus could spread further through travel movements. ## Window of Opportunity for Containment The WHO emphasizes that any improvement in the monitoring rate could change the dynamics of the outbreak. If follow-up is consistently brought up to the 95 percent target, the number of new cases could be noticeably reduced according to experts' assessments. The coming weeks are therefore considered decisive in order to contain the spread and strengthen protective measures for the population. At the same time, experts warn of a possible underestimation of the situation: since some of the contacts are not being recorded, the actual number of infected individuals could be higher than the officially reported cases. Transparent and continuous reporting, as well as unhindered access for aid organizations, therefore remain central prerequisites for bringing the epidemic under control.

Ebola Outbreak in Congo: WHO Reports Insufficient Monitoring of Contacts

Why 95 Percent Contact Monitoring Is Decisive

Obstacles to Follow-Up on the Ground

Countermeasures and International Support

Window of Opportunity for Containment

Questions & Answers