The US death rate reached a record low in 2025, falling 4.6% due to fewer drug overdose and COVID-19 fatalities. However, influenza and pneumonia re-entered the top 10 causes of death, linked to severe viral strains and declining vaccination rates amid shifting federal health policies.
Fears of undetected Ebola circulation grow in eastern DRC as Kigonze camp residents refuse testing. Over 15,000 displaced people in Bunia, the outbreak's epicenter, have seen 10 deaths this week alone, with symptoms matching Ebola.
A hantavirus outbreak on the MV Hondius cruise ship, involving 147 passengers and crew from 23 nationalities, has been successfully contained. Spain's leadership in docking and managing disembarkation, WHO's technical guidance, and UKHSA's repatriation efforts were crucial. This success highlights effective international cooperation in public health.
The WHO reports a 30-50% death rate in the DRC Ebola outbreak, with 10 confirmed and 223 suspected deaths. Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus appeals for a ceasefire in the conflict-ridden region to aid relief efforts.
