Ebola Bundibugyo virus disease: what we know

An outbreak of Ebola virus disease caused by the Bundibugyo virus was declared on 15 May 2026 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), with cross-border spread to Uganda. The World Health Organization has classified the event as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern due to its severity and potential for international spread.

As of late May 2026, hundreds of suspected cases and confirmed infections have been reported, with transmission concentrated in eastern DRC. Challenges in contact follow-up, insecure conditions, and inadequate isolation and referral systems complicating response efforts. National authorities, in collaboration with WHO and partners, are implementing response measures including deployment of rapid response teams, delivery of medical supplies, strengthened surveillance, laboratory confirmation, infection prevention and control assessments, the set-up of safe and optimized treatment centers, and community engagement. This webinar will explain why this outbreak is significant, WHO recommendations and the rationale behind them.

Objectives of the webinar:

• Provide an overview of current knowledge on Ebola Bundibugyo virus disease, and the response.

• Explain available WHO guidance on this outbreak

• Highlight practical information for preparedness and readiness of WHO Member States