Health Protection Agency has stated that it is closely monitoring the Ebola outbreak reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda following health alerts issued by the World Health Organization.

World Health Organization said health authorities in Congo and Uganda are responding to the spread of the Ebola virus in affected regions, while the risk of further transmission to neighbouring countries remains high. However, the WHO has stated that there is currently no indication of wider global spread linked to the outbreak.

The HPA stated that the Maldives is closely monitoring developments related to the outbreak, although no cases have been reported in the country. The agency noted that precautionary measures and preparedness arrangements are being reviewed in response to the evolving situation.

As of May 16, the WHO reported suspected Ebola-related deaths and confirmed cases from areas including Bunia, Rwampara and Mongbwalu in Congo’s Ituri province. Health authorities in Congo have also reported additional suspected and laboratory-confirmed cases linked to the outbreak.

This marks the 17th recorded Ebola outbreak in Congo, where the virus was first identified in 1976. Ebola is a severe viral disease that can spread through direct contact with infected bodily fluids and has previously caused multiple outbreaks in parts of Africa.