Health authorities across Africa are on high alert following a deadly Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda, which the World Health Organization (WHO) officially declared a global health emergency on 17 May 2026.
The outbreak, linked to the rare Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus, has already claimed dozens of lives and infected hundreds more in eastern DRC, with confirmed cases now crossing into Uganda. Medical experts warn that the virus could spread further across East and Central Africa if urgent containment measures are not strengthened.
Neighbouring countries have begun tightening border screening and increasing disease surveillance as fears grow over regional transmission. Health agencies are urging the public to remain vigilant, avoid contact with suspected infected persons, and immediately report symptoms such as fever, vomiting, bleeding, severe weakness, and diarrhoea.
Unlike previous Ebola outbreaks, there is currently no approved vaccine specifically designed for the Bundibugyo strain, raising concerns among international health officials. The WHO and Africa CDC have warned that conflict, displacement, and weak healthcare systems in affected areas may worsen the crisis.
Communities, travellers, and health institutions across the continent are urged to take precautionary measures seriously as authorities work to contain the outbreak before it spreads further.
