Special Pathogens of Concern Situation Report: May 18, 2026: Bundibugyo virus

Added: 2026-05-26

[00:00:00]Hi, I'm Dr. Corey Levine and here are three things you should know about the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

[00:00:08]One, on May 17th, the World Health Organization declared the Ebola outbreak caused by the Bundibugyo virus a public health emergency of international concern.

[00:00:18]As of May 17th, health officials have reported 10 laboratory confirmed Ebola cases and 336 suspected cases including 88 deaths in the DRC.

[00:00:29]Uganda has also reported two laboratory confirmed cases including one death in individuals who had traveled from the DRC.

[00:00:38]Two, public health experts warn the outbreak may be significantly larger than current numbers suggest.

[00:00:45]Concerns are being driven by increasing reports of suspected cases and evidence of cross-border spread into Uganda.

[00:00:52]Unlike other Ebola virus species, there are currently no approved vaccines or targeted therapeutics specifically for the Bundibugyo virus.

[00:01:00]However, experts emphasize that early recognition and intensive supportive care can significantly improve survival.

[00:01:07]Three, for health care workers in the United States, NETEC encourages facilities and frontline personnel to stay informed on the evolving epidemiology of Bundibugyo virus disease including the incubation period, early symptoms and recommended infection prevention and control measures.

[00:01:25]Health care facilities should reinforce preparedness activities and continue to apply the identify, isolate and inform strategy to reduce the risk of transmission.

[00:01:35]For more information and for health care related resources, visit us on the web at netec.org.