Ebola Outbreak in DRC and Uganda: Global Emergency and Rising Death Toll

The World Health Organization (WHO) declared a public health emergency of international concern on May 17, 2026, following an outbreak of Ebola disease in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Uganda.

The current epidemic is caused by the Bundibugyo virus, a specific species of the orthoebolavirus group.

The Director-General of the WHO determined that the event is extraordinary and meets the criteria for a public health emergency of international concern, although it does not currently meet the criteria of a pandemic emergency.

Case Counts and Regional Impact

According to data provided by the WHO, there were eight laboratory-confirmed cases, 246 suspected cases, and 80 suspected deaths reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo as of May 16, 2026.

These cases have been identified across at least three health zones in the Ituri Province, specifically in Bunia, Rwampara, and Mongbwalu.

While the WHO reported 80 suspected deaths as of May 16, a report from the BBC indicates that the death toll in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has since risen to at least 100.

International Spread and Response

The outbreak has begun to affect international travelers. CNN reports that an American citizen has been infected with the virus while in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

In response to the infection and the ongoing outbreak, the United States is taking steps to limit entry from the affected region.

The WHO Director-General expressed gratitude to the leadership of Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo for their commitment to taking vigorous actions to control the event.

The organization noted that the frankness of these nations in assessing the risk posed to other states has allowed the global community to implement necessary preparedness actions.

Public Health Context

The determination of a public health emergency of international concern was made pursuant to the International Health Regulations (2005).

In reaching this decision, the WHO considered scientific evidence and principles, the risk to human health, the potential for international spread of the disease, and the risk of interference with international traffic.

The Bundibugyo virus is one of several viruses known to cause Ebola disease, which is characterized by severe illness and high mortality rates if left untreated.

Efforts to contain the virus are currently focused on the affected health zones in the Ituri Province and coordinating responses between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda to prevent further regional transmission.