The Democratic Republic of Congo DRC is battling with an outbreak of the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus, officially declared in may 15, 2026. This marks the country’s 17th Ebola outbreak
As of late June, health authorities have recorded 1,094 confirmed cases and 277 deaths, with a fatality rate of about 26 percent. The outbreak is concentrated in Ituri Province, which accounts for 997 cases, while North Kivu has 94 cases and South Kivu has three.
The virus is severely affecting displaced persons, particularly at the Kigonze displacement camp in Bunia. Uganda has also reported 20 confirmed cases and two deaths, with several infections linked to the DRC.
Unlike the Zaire strain of Ebola, there is currently no approved vaccine or specific treatment for the Bundibugyo virus. The World Health Organization has described the situation as a “catastrophic collision” of disease and conflict, as ongoing insecurity continues to hamper response efforts.
At least 70 healthcare workers have been infected, further straining medical services. The WHO has designated the outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.
