US aid cuts delayed Ebola outbreak response in DRC and Uganda (dw.com)

• Bundibugyo strain: no vaccine, no drug, 33% case fatality rate
• 139 deaths, 600 suspected cases; WHO declared PHEIC
• US aid cuts (USAID, CDC, WHO withdrawal) worsened outbreak response

"The Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda are combating an Ebola outbreak caused by the rare Bundibugyo strain, for which no vaccine or drug exists. As of May 20, 2026, 139 deaths and 600 suspected cases have been reported. WHO declared a public health emergency. Experts blame US aid cuts (USAID, CDC) for delayed detection. The US slashed 90% of USAID's budget, withdrew from WHO, and cut CDC staff. Other donors also reduced aid. The outbreak is spreading faster than the 2014 West Africa epidemic."