Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
The World Health Organization has listed the first molecular diagnostic test for Bundibugyo virus (BDBV) on its Emergency Use Listing (EUL), enabling rapid and accurate detection of the virus by identifying its genetic material in blood samples. The EUL process assesses the quality, safety, and performance of essential health products to international standards and addresses needs in low- and middle-income countries.
WHO states that this listing is intended to facilitate early case detection, timely clinical care, disease surveillance, and an effective outbreak response. The EUL also aids United Nations agencies and governments in procurement decisions during public health emergencies. WHO Assistant Director-General Dr. Yukiko Nakatani emphasized the importance of timely access to quality-assured diagnostic tests to contain transmission during fast-moving outbreaks.
On 17 May 2026, WHO declared a public health emergency of international concern after an outbreak of Ebola disease caused by BDBV in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Uganda. In response, WHO called for expressions of interest to list in vitro diagnostic tests specific to the Bundibugyo virus under the EUL.
The test listing comes amid the largest recorded outbreak of Ebola Bundibugyo virus, with 1,406 laboratory-confirmed cases and 438 deaths reported in the DRC. With support from WHO and Africa CDC, laboratory testing has expanded from a few sites in Kinshasa and Goma, which had capacity for 200–400 tests daily, to a network of 10 laboratories across affected provinces with a total capacity of over 2,000 tests per day.
Rapid and reliable diagnosis remains essential to identify cases early, provide timely patient care, interrupt transmission, and support containment efforts. WHO continues to work with manufacturers, global partners, and affected countries to expand access to quality-assured diagnostics and strengthen outbreak response.