Addis Ababa – As of June 17, 2026, the Bundibugyo Virus Disease outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda has resulted in 915 confirmed cases and 210 fatalities.
The Bundibugyo virus is categorized as a variant of the Ebola virus.
On June 19, 2026, Africa CDC reported that the situation remains dire, with ongoing transmission identified in eastern DRC.
Ituri Province is the primary epicenter of the outbreak, with most confirmed cases originating from this region.
Significant health zones impacted include Bunia, Mongbwalu, and Rwampara.
Although North Kivu reports fewer cases than Ituri, it exhibits a higher case fatality rate, particularly in Katwa and Beni.
This underscores the urgent need for continued efforts in early detection, safe referrals, quality patient care, and robust infection prevention and control.
In Uganda, there have been 19 confirmed cases and two reported fatalities. No new cases have emerged in Uganda since June 5, 2026.
Ongoing measures for surveillance, case identification, and traveler screening are in place, especially in the Kampala Metropolitan Area and at significant entry points.
Africa CDC is working closely with affected member states, WHO, and partners to strengthen outbreak control measures.
Priority actions include surveillance, contact tracing, laboratory testing, case management, infection prevention and control, risk communication, community engagement, and cross-border coordination.
Current operational challenges include difficulties in contact tracing, shortages of personal protective equipment and essential medical supplies, limited ambulance capacity, and community reluctance related to isolation, post-mortem testing, and household decontamination.
Africa CDC and partners are assisting national and local authorities in addressing these challenges and enhancing response capabilities in areas where transmission is ongoing.
A 90-day cross-border operational incident plan has been approved between DRC and Uganda.
Joint operational planning is in progress to improve coordination, surveillance, and response effectiveness in border regions.
Africa CDC and WHO do not recommend any travel or trade restrictions.
The focus remains on prompt detection, safe care, screening, follow-up with contacts, infection prevention and control, and building trust within the community.
“Communities are vital in stopping this outbreak,” stated Africa CDC.
“The response will be effective only if the community trusts the information given, knows where to seek healthcare, and believes that response teams are genuinely collaborating with them.
“Africa CDC is dedicated to assisting member states in enhancing surveillance, testing, infection prevention and control, and community engagement to ensure that transmission is halted as swiftly and safely as possible.”
