The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the Ebola disease outbreak caused by Bundibugyo virus in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). As of May 16, 2026, there are 8 laboratory-confirmed cases, 246 suspected cases, and 80 suspected deaths reported in Ituri Province, DRC, and 2 confirmed cases in Kampala, Uganda.
Cases have been reported in Ituri Province, DRC, and Kampala, Uganda, with 4 healthcare worker deaths raising concerns about nosocomial transmission. The limited understanding of epidemiological links and geographic spread adds to the complexity of the outbreak. Currently, there are no approved Bundibugyo virus-specific therapeutics or vaccines available.
In response, WHO has recommended activating national emergency response mechanisms, enhancing surveillance, laboratory capacity, and infection prevention control. Risk communication and community engagement are crucial, along with establishing specialized treatment centers and clinical trials for therapeutics and vaccines. Travel and mass gatherings in affected areas should be restricted.
The global response involves supporting affected countries in strengthening response capacities, providing technical assistance and resources for contact tracing and case management, and enhancing regional and international coordination for disease surveillance and response.
