DRC and Uganda Bundibugyo virus outbreak: PHEIC declared with rapid case growth and modelling estimates (nature.com)

• WHO declared a PHEIC on 17 May 2026 for the Ebola outbreak in DRC and Uganda.
• Imperial College modelling suggests true cases may exceed 900, possibly over 1,000.
• Bundibugyo virus (30-50% CFR) likely spread undetected for two months before official declaration.

"The outbreak of Bundibugyo Ebola virus in DRC and Uganda, declared on 15 May 2026, has already led to 61 confirmed and nearly 600 suspected cases by 20 May. A modelling study from Imperial College estimates true cases could exceed 900. The WHO declared a PHEIC on 17 May. The virus has been spreading undetected for about two months, with a suspected first case on 20 April and a super-spreading event on 5 May. The Bundibugyo species has a 30-50% CFR, lower than Zaire but still alarming given the scale."