DRC and Uganda battle expanding Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak
PUBLISHED May 19, 2026, 10:56 AM ET
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The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a Level 3 travel health notice advising against nonessential travel to the Democratic Republic of the Congo amid a growing Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak affecting both DRC and Uganda. On 17 May 2026, the World Health Organization declared the situation a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. As of 19 May 2026, WHO figures show 30 confirmed cases, over 500 suspected cases, and at least 130 suspected deaths, including healthcare workers. The virus has reached Kampala and Goma, and no approved vaccines or specific antivirals exist for this strain. U.S. authorities have raised Ituri Province to Level 4, and one infected American has been transferred to Germany for specialized care while international agencies expand surveillance, contact tracing, and testing.
By Faro B. | JQJO News
Timeline of Events
- May 17, 2026 WHO declares PHEIC status
- May 19, 2026 WHO reports 30 confirmed infections
- May 19, 2026 Over 500 suspected Ebola cases
- May 19, 2026 At least 130 suspected Ebola deaths
- May 2026 Virus spreads to Kampala and Goma
- May 2026 CDC issues Level 3 travel notice
- May 2026 Ituri Province raised to Level 4
- May 2026 Infected American evacuated to Germany
News Intelligence
- This Ebola outbreak affects your safety. If you're planning travel to DRC or Uganda, reconsider. The CDC advises against nonessential trips. Especially avoid Ituri Province, now at Level
- Check your travel insurance for pandemic coverage.
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