Rare Bundibugyo Ebola strain outbreak in DRC and Uganda with no vaccine or specific treatment (npr.org)

• WHO declared PHEIC on May 16, 2026
• Over 600 suspected cases, 139 deaths, mainly in DRC
• Bundibugyo strain: no vaccine, no specific treatment
• Spread to urban Goma and Kampala
• Case fatality rate 30-50%; health workers among deceased

"An outbreak of the rare Bundibugyo Ebola virus in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda has caused over 600 suspected cases and 139 deaths as of May 20, 2026. WHO declared a public health emergency on May 16. There is no licensed vaccine or specific treatment for this strain, which has a 30-50% case fatality rate. The outbreak likely began months before detection and has spread to urban areas including Goma and Kampala. Experts warn of significant undercount and challenges due to conflict and weak health systems."