US aid cuts likely delayed detection of Ebola outbreak in DRC (npr.org)

• Outbreak declared May 15, 2026; over 600 suspected cases and 139 deaths
• Rare Bundibugyo species hindered early detection
• USAID cuts disrupted surveillance and logistics
• CDC not informed until day before declaration; U.S. withdrew from WHO

"The current Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo was officially declared on May 15, but experts believe it had been spreading for weeks or months. The rare Bundibugyo species complicated standard testing. Cuts to U.S. aid, especially USAID programs, weakened surveillance and logistics, according to former officials. The outbreak has over 600 suspected cases and 139 deaths, exacerbated by conflict in Ituri province. The U.S. was notified only the day before the declaration."