A complex public health picture is outlined in the latest weekly report of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, as Europe records a decline in major respiratory viruses, while remaining under heightened surveillance for international outbreaks and diseases that may re-emerge or intensify in the coming months.
The greatest concern relates to the new Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, linked to the Bundibugyo virus. According to ECDC data, by 21 May more than 650 suspected cases, around 160 deaths and dozens of confirmed infections had been recorded in the two countries. The situation is considered particularly serious, as the specific strain shows genetic differences compared to previous outbreaks, while no approved vaccines or specialised treatments exist. At the same time, authorities estimate that the real extent of the spread may be greater. This development led both the World Health Organization and the Africa CDC to declare public health emergencies. Despite the concern, the ECDC assesses that the risk to the general population of the European Union remains very low, mainly due to the low likelihood of importation and secondary transmission. The report also notes that Ebola is transmitted primarily through direct contact with blood or other bodily fluids of infected or deceased individuals, as well as through contaminated surfaces or objects.
Measles remains active
At the same time, European authorities continue to closely monitor measles, which continues to record cases in several countries. Over the past 12 months, 3,607 cases were recorded in EU and EEA countries, with nearly 86% being laboratory confirmed. Particular concern is raised by the fact that almost eight out of ten patients were unvaccinated, highlighting gaps in vaccination coverage. Most cases were reported in Bulgaria, Italy, Spain, France and Germany, while the ECDC warns that increased summer travel may further boost transmission, especially in populations with low vaccination protection.
Decline in seasonal viruses
By contrast, the outlook for respiratory viruses in Europe is more stable. Influenza has returned to baseline levels, RSV is showing low activity, and SARS‑CoV‑2 is circulating at very low levels following the decline of the winter period.
At the same time, the ECDC is monitoring the spread of the Chikungunya virus in French Guiana, where hundreds of cases have been identified, as well as a new human case of avian influenza A(H9N2) in China. The overall picture shows that, despite the decline of typical seasonal viruses, health threats remain dynamic and require continuous surveillance.
