Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda

Following the rapid spread of the Ebola epidemic caused by the Bundibugyo virus, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared a public health emergency in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Uganda on May 16th, 2026.

Since the end of April, health authorities have reported a significant increase in Ebola cases, particularly in the northeastern Ituri region of the DRC. Several confirmed cases are linked to the Bundibugyo virus, a relatively rare strain that causes Ebola virus disease. Unlike the more common Zaire Ebola strain, no specific vaccine is currently available against the Bundibugyo virus. Mortality associated with Bundibugyo virus infection is estimated at 30–50%, which is lower than for the Zaire Ebola virus, where mortality rates can reach up to 90%.

More than 500 suspected cases and approximately 130 suspected deaths have now been reported in the Ituri region of northeastern DRC and the neighboring North Kivu region. Uganda has so far reported two imported cases in travelers arriving from affected areas, including one fatality. A US citizen working in the local healthcare sector was also infected and has since been medically evacuated.

Travel restrictions

The WHO currently does not recommend any general travel or trade restrictions for Uganda or the DRC. However, local authorities have introduced enhanced health screening measures at airports, border crossings, and healthcare facilities.

Recommendations for travelers

Travelers visiting affected regions should take the following precautions:

• Avoid contact with people who are ill, especially individuals with fever, vomiting, diarrhea, or bleeding
• Avoid contact with bodily fluids
• Avoid healthcare facilities with known Ebola cases whenever possible
• Do not participate in traditional burial rituals involving direct contact with deceased persons
• Maintain strict hand hygiene
  
  

Anyone who develops fever or flu-like symptoms during travel or within 21 days after returning should seek immediate medical attention and mention their travel history.

Vaccination

Important to know: The currently available Ebola vaccines were developed against the more common and more severe Zaire Ebola strain and are not approved for protection against the currently circulating Bundibugyo strain. There is currently no specific vaccine available against this virus variant.

The WHO and local health authorities continue to carry out intensive measures to contain the outbreak, including contact tracing, laboratory diagnostics and public health education.