The World Health Organization (WHO) has intensified emergency operations in north-eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) following a deadly Ebola outbreak caused by the Bundibugyo virus strain— warning that, unlike some other forms of Ebola, there is currently no approved vaccine or specific treatment available.

‎WHO said the outbreak, officially declared on 15 May 2026 and later classified by the WHO Director-General as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) on 17 May, is unfolding in a highly complex environment marked by insecurity, population displacement, cross-border trade and large refugee communities.

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‎“No licensed vaccine or specific treatment exists for Bundibugyo virus disease,” WHO said, noting that prevention and rapid public health interventions remain the most effective tools for limiting transmission.

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‎The agency warned that response efforts face added pressure because the outbreak is occurring in an area with intense population movement linked to mining activities and regional trade routes between the DRC and neighbouring Uganda.

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‎Health authorities in both countries, supported by WHO and international partners, have activated emergency coordination systems to strengthen surveillance, laboratory testing, contact tracing, infection prevention and control measures, and case management.

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‎Within 72 hours of the outbreak declaration, WHO deployed more than 35 health experts and emergency responders, alongside 11.5 tonnes of medical supplies including protective equipment, medical kits, tents and sanitation materials, as authorities race to contain the virus in Ituri Province

‎WHO said specialized treatment centres and isolation units are being established near outbreak epicentres, while healthcare workers are receiving additional infection prevention training amid reports of suspected healthcare-associated infections and deaths among medical staff.

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‎The outbreak marks the DRC’s 17th Ebola outbreak since the virus was first identified in the country in 1976.

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‎According to WHO, Ebola spreads through direct contact with bodily fluids of infected persons or contaminated surfaces. In the absence of approved countermeasures for the Bundibugyo strain, officials are urging communities to prioritize hand hygiene, early reporting of symptoms, rapid medical care and cooperation with health authorities.

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‎Research initiatives are also being accelerated to evaluate potential vaccines and investigational therapeutics targeting the Bundibugyo virus strain. WHO said preparedness efforts include strengthening cold-chain systems, expanding laboratory diagnostic capacity and preparing clinical trial sites in affected and at-risk countries.

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‎Despite the outbreak, WHO has advised against international travel or trade restrictions, warning that border closures could worsen risks by driving movements through informal and unmonitored crossings.

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‎The organization said governments, humanitarian agencies, airlines and international partners are working urgently to contain the outbreak and prevent further regional spread.

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