WHO declares Ebola outbreak a global health emergency; Indonesia urged to stay vigilant

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). This designation comes as the outbreak has surged to 1,118 cases, resulting in more than 291 fatalities as of June 24, 2026.

The PHEIC declaration serves as a critical alarm for the global community, highlighting the threat of cross-border infectious disease transmission. Dr. Farindira Vesti Rahmasari, a parasitology expert, emphasized that while Ebola's transmission characteristics differ from COVID-19, high levels of international travel increase the risk of global spread.

"Ebola transmission occurs through direct contact with blood, bodily fluids, or the corpses of infected individuals," Dr. Rahmasari explained. "However, when a disease is deemed at risk of spreading across borders and requires international cooperation, it signals that the world needs to increase its vigilance."

According to the expert, the PHEIC status is more than just an indicator of rising case numbers. It is a warning for all nations to bolster three key pillars: early detection systems, rapid reporting mechanisms, and tactical public health responses. Historical outbreaks demonstrate that delays in identifying and responding to initial cases are a primary driver of widespread disease dissemination.

Given Indonesia's status as an archipelago with numerous international entry points, experts stress the need for heightened surveillance, even though no Ebola cases have been reported domestically. Dr. Rahmasari specifically called for reinforced screening at airports, ports, and border crossings for travelers arriving from affected Ebola regions, alongside ensuring the readiness of healthcare facilities.