More than 90 percent of all current cases are heavily concentrated in Ituri, with a small number of infections leaking into North Kivu and South Kivu. Ongoing armed conflict, community displacement, and deep-seated mistrust are severely blocking medical workers from reaching vulnerable communities.

"That is why today I am making a direct appeal to all warring parties in this region: please, declare a ceasefire. Even briefly. Even just enough to let health workers through," Tedros stated in an official address published on his X account.

"No cause, no conflict, no grievance is worth condemning innocent people to death from a preventable disease,” he noted.

The escalating health crisis is uniquely dangerous because responders are battling the Ebola Bundibugyo strain, a stark contrast to previous historical outbreaks in the country.

"This outbreak is caused by a different virus called Ebola Bundibugyo. There are currently no approved vaccines or treatments for it," Tedros warned.

He stressed that while the situation is serious, early supportive care inside local treatment centers remains a critical tool that can make the difference between life and death.

To spearhead the emergency response, the WHO chief announced he is bypassing bureaucratic channels to travel directly into the conflict zone.

"That is why I am coming to Bunia. I will be there in person, alongside my colleagues, meeting your leaders, listening to your concerns, and doing everything in my power to help you," Tedros said, noting that he refuses to manage the crisis from a comfortable office far away.

Tedros, who is affectionately known locally as "Dr. Paluku" following his 14 visits to the region during the 2018–2020 epidemic, acknowledged that health workers are operating under constant threat. During past outbreaks, clinics were targeted, and responders were killed.

The WHO confirmed that its medical teams are already deployed on the ground, operating under the direct leadership of the DRC Government. Responders are focusing on tracking cases, offering safe and dignified burials, and coordinating resources.

Tedros promised that UN health teams will remain in Ituri long after the virus is contained to help rebuild the local healthcare system.