During his visit to the country, he addressed the Congolese, emphasizing that the international community should help in the fight against the disease.
“This disease can be stopped. Together, we will overcome this escalating epidemic,” said the WHO chief.
According to the organization, since the new epidemic was declared on May 15, 10 confirmed and 223 suspected deaths have been recorded in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The number of people infected with the virus has exceeded one thousand.
The WHO indicates that the actual figures may be even higher, as the virus may have spread undetected for some time.
For reference, this is the 17th Ebola epidemic in Congo's history. The virus was first detected in the country in 1976.
The death rate in the current epidemic stands at 24.6 percent. This is below the global average for the Ebola virus, which is 50 percent.
Experts say there is currently no confirmed treatment for the Bundibugyo strain. Meanwhile, the WHO has recommended starting clinical trials for vaccines and treatments.
Neighboring Uganda announced it would close its border with Congo after detecting Ebola-related cases. The WHO warned that such measures could increase illegal crossings and complicate disease control.
