Uganda ordered the immediate closure of its border with the Democratic Republic of Congo on Wednesday in response to a surging Ebola outbreak.

The decision was announced by Ugandan health authorities after seven confirmed cases and one death were reported in Uganda, several involving health workers who had treated patients from across the border. The outbreak involves the Bundibugyo virus strain and is centered in Congo's Ituri Province.

Congo has reported over 100 confirmed cases and hundreds of suspected cases with significant deaths since the outbreak was confirmed in mid-May. The World Health Organization declared the situation a public health emergency of international concern on May 17.

Ugandan officials cited the need to prevent further cross-border transmission. Exceptions were noted for authorized response teams, humanitarian operations, and essential cargo, all subject to screening.

The closure comes despite WHO guidance against border restrictions, which it says can drive movement to unmonitored crossings and hinder response efforts. Uganda's Ebola task force, led by Vice President Jesca Alupo, made the call following the recent domestic cases.

International health bodies including the CDC have issued travel notices for the region. No cases have been reported in the United States as of the latest updates.