First meeting of the IHR Emergency Committee regarding the epidemic of Ebola Bundibugyo virus disease in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda 2026

Summary: The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the Bundibugyo virus (BVD) outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda a global health emergency. This virus is a type of Ebola, but right now, there are no approved vaccines or medicines to treat it.

To stop the spread, the WHO is telling affected countries to track anyone exposed for 21 days, set up safe treatment centers, and test carefully. Neighboring countries are being told to go on high alert and screen people at their borders. While the WHO says flights shouldn't be canceled just yet, they are warning travelers to be very careful and suggesting that large gatherings be postponed.

For more details, see rssapp-who-int-news at who.int/news/item/22-05-2026-first-meeting-of-the-ihr-emergency-committee-regarding-the-epidemic-of-ebola-bundibugyo-virus-disease-in-the-democratic-republic-of-the-congo-and-uganda-2026-temporary-recommendations (opens in new tab)