Uganda confirmed three new cases of Ebola on Saturday as the World Health Organization raised the risk level for the outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo [1, 3].

The escalation reflects the virus's ability to cross international borders, complicating containment efforts and increasing the potential for a wider regional epidemic.

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said, "We have declared the outbreak a public health emergency of international concern" [2]. The organization upgraded its risk assessment for the Democratic Republic of Congo from "high" to "very high," which is the highest possible level [3].

Health authorities in Uganda reported the three new infections [1]. This cross-border spread follows a surge in cases and fatalities within the DRC. The total death toll from the outbreak, including the recent cases in Uganda, has reached 131 [4].

A WHO spokesperson said, "The risk from the deadly Ebola outbreak has been raised to the highest level for the Democratic Republic of Congo" [2].

Uganda's Ministry of Health and the WHO are coordinating responses to manage the new cases and prevent further transmission. The shift to a "very high" risk level indicates that the outbreak is now considered a critical threat to public health both within the DRC and in neighboring states [3].

“The total death toll from the outbreak, including the recent cases in Uganda, has reached 131.”

The transition of the Ebola outbreak from a localized event in the DRC to a cross-border crisis in Uganda triggers a more aggressive international response. By designating the situation as a public health emergency of international concern, the WHO can mobilize global resources and coordinate stricter travel and health screenings to prevent the virus from establishing a foothold in multiple East African nations.