The World Health Organization (WHO) has escalated its risk assessment of the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo to 'very high', citing 82 confirmed cases and seven deaths. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus noted that the actual number of cases is likely much higher, with 750 suspected cases and 177 suspected deaths reported. The outbreak is centered in the northeastern Ituri province, where public fear and distrust have led to violent protests, including the burning of hospital tents. In response to the crisis, the United Nations has released $60 million from its Central Emergency Response Fund, while the United States has pledged $23 million to bolster the response, including the establishment of up to 50 Ebola treatment clinics. However, local authorities in Uganda have expressed skepticism about the establishment of these clinics. The outbreak is complicated by cultural practices, as many families continue to engage in traditional mourning rituals that involve contact with the deceased, increasing the risk of transmission. The Bundibugyo strain responsible for this outbreak lacks a vaccine or treatment, making containment efforts reliant on strict health precautions and contact tracing.