DRC and WHO Joint Statement on Bundibugyo Ebola Outbreak in Eastern Provinces
The Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the World Health Organization issued a joint statement on May 31, 2026, regarding an outbreak of Ebola disease caused by the Bundibugyo virus. The statement follows a high-level visit to Bunia led by Health Minister Dr Samuel Roger Kamba, Communication Minister Mr. Patrick Muyaya Katembwe, and WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. The Ministry of Health reports a rapidly evolving situation with cases and deaths notified in several health zones of Ituri, North Kivu, and South Kivu. The government, with WHO and partner support, is intensifying surveillance, laboratory testing, and patient care to interrupt transmission. Authorities note that no licensed vaccine or specific treatment exists for the Bundibugyo strain, but proven public health measures remain effective. The response emphasizes community engagement through dialogue with leaders, women’s groups, and religious representatives. The DRC brings experience from previous Ebola outbreaks, and both parties call for sustained international solidarity while keeping borders open for medical supplies and personnel.
What’s reported
The outbreak involves Ebola disease caused by the Bundibugyo virus.
Cases and deaths have been notified in health zones of Ituri, North Kivu, and South Kivu.
No licensed vaccine or specific treatment is currently available for this strain.
A high-level joint mission to Bunia included the DRC Health Minister, Communication Minister, and the WHO Director-General.
Response measures include surveillance, laboratory testing, patient care, contact tracing, safe burials, infection prevention, and community awareness.
The DRC government is leading the national response with support from WHO, UN agencies, Africa CDC, and other partners.
Both parties call for continued international solidarity and open borders for medical supplies and personnel.
Open questions
The exact number of confirmed cases and deaths is not specified in the statement.
Key figures
Dr Samuel Roger Kamba, Minister of Health of the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Mr. Patrick Muyaya Katembwe, Minister of Communication and Medias of the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization
Sources: World Health Organization
