WHO INTERNATIONAL ALERTS AND THE RISK OF RE-EMERGENCE OF EBOLA IN THE CONTEXT OF GLOBAL HEALTH

Abstract

Ebola Virus Disease remains one of the most serious infectious threats to global public health due to its high lethality, rapid spread in vulnerable settings, and significant social, economic, and health impacts. In this context, international alerts issued by the World Health Organization (WHO) serve as essential mechanisms for surveillance, coordination, and early response to disease outbreaks. This study aimed to analyze the importance of these alerts and discuss the risk of Ebola re-emergence within the contemporary global health landscape. A narrative literature review was conducted using scientific articles, technical documents, epidemiological reports, and institutional publications released between 2018 and 2025. The findings demonstrated that the persistence of outbreaks in African regions, combined with increased population mobility, environmental changes, humanitarian crises, and weaknesses in health systems, contributes to maintaining the risk of international disease spread. Furthermore, WHO alert systems support the rapid mobilization of resources, strengthen epidemiological surveillance, and promote international cooperation in implementing preventive and response measures. It is concluded that, despite advances in vaccine development, laboratory diagnosis, and outbreak containment strategies, the possibility of Ebola re-emergence remains a concern. Continuous investment in epidemiological monitoring, scientific research, and the strengthening of global preparedness and emergency response capacities is therefore essential to mitigate future public health risks.