The World Health Organization (WHO) declares a rare Ebola outbreak a public health emergency of international concern and warns that the number of cases and deaths is likely to increase. In the latest updates, WHO reports around 600 suspected cases and 139 suspected deaths. The WHO’s top officials say the outbreak may have been spreading before it is detected, contributing to the expectation that the real scale could be larger than current counts.
While some reporting cites figures at roughly 600 suspected cases and 139 suspected deaths, one source also quotes higher estimates—nearly 750 suspected cases and 177 suspected deaths—indicating that figures are being revised as additional information is gathered. WHO-related commentary also emphasizes that although the risk of an Ebola outbreak in Europe is considered low, authorities are monitoring the situation.
Medical experts referenced by outlets say the situation may be developing faster than first believed and that hundreds of suspected cases are reported in central Africa, but the true number could be higher due to limitations in detection and reporting during active transmission.
