WHO says Ebola outbreak in Congo likely started in February, months before it was declared

The World Health Organization announced on Monday that the current Ebola outbreak in eastern Congo likely began in February, several months before it was officially declared in mid-May. The revelation comes as health responders continue to struggle to catch up with what is described as the fastest-growing Ebola outbreak on record.

The timeline discrepancy highlights the ongoing challenges faced by medical teams operating in the region as they attempt to contain the rapid spread of the virus. The delayed official declaration until May allowed the disease additional months to circulate undetected before concerted containment efforts were mobilized.