Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
The Ebola outbreak involving the Bundibugyo species, confirmed in both the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Uganda, has led to 19 confirmed cases and one probable case in Uganda, mainly linked to transmission from the DRC. Currently, there is no approved vaccine for this strain .
WHO officials have recognized Uganda's strong response despite humanitarian pressures, insecurity, and extensive cross-border movement. Uganda commissioned an Ebola Treatment Unit at Mulago Hospital within six hours of the outbreak declaration, staffed by a 146-member Emergency Medical Team established in 2023. The team was deployed within two hours of the outbreak announcement .
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, after his regional visit, commended Uganda's surveillance, testing, and case management systems, which have enabled rapid identification and management of cases. He emphasized that preparedness is key to saving lives .
Tedros noted that the risk of further transmission remains and stressed that sustained cooperation between Uganda and the DRC is essential, as no single country can control the outbreak alone. He also highlighted the importance of community engagement, particularly in border areas, for effective reporting, contact tracing, and adherence to health guidelines .
Regarding outbreak control measures, Tedros reiterated WHO’s stance against travel bans, stating they are ineffective and urging countries to reconsider such restrictions .