Stopping Bundibugyo: The 2026 Ebola Response and the Vaccine Race

An Ebola epidemic caused by the Bundibugyo virus has expanded rapidly in northeastern Democratic Republic of the Congo and has reached neighbouring Uganda. The Ministry of Public Health of the DRC declared an outbreak on 15 May 2026, and on May 17, 2026 the World Health Organization elevated the event to a public health emergency of international concern. The outbreak is centered in Ituri province, a busy mining and trade hub, and movement of people across porous borders has complicated containment.

As of 21 May 2026, national authorities reported 85 confirmed cases across the DRC and Uganda and 746 suspected cases in the DRC, with 176 suspected deaths and ten deaths among confirmed cases. Response teams have noted that contact tracing and isolation have been undermined by insecurity, low follow-up rates and widespread rumours, while several health workers have been infected. Surveillance has been strengthened and rapid response teams have been deployed, but access to some communities remains limited.

Because there are no licensed vaccines or specific therapeutics for Bundibugyo virus disease, research and trials have been fast-tracked. The Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations has backed three vaccine candidates and has committed rapid funding to accelerate their development, and WHO experts have prioritised three experimental treatments, MBP134, maftivimab and remdesivir, for clinical evaluation. International partners have emphasized that any use of these interventions should take place within well-designed clinical trials to establish safety and effectiveness.

Some candidates could enter wider testing within months if animal data and early human results support their safety and immunogenicity, while priority therapeutics may be evaluated immediately in study arms where supplies exist. Continued community engagement, secure access and clear communication will be essential if trials are to proceed and if public health measures are to reduce transmission.