What happened?
Since the previous update, WHO reports 9 704 confirmed Bundibugyo virus disease cases and 4 687 deaths (crude CFR 48.3%) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo as of 20 October 2026. The outbreak has spread to Kenya (nine cases, one death, single cluster) and one imported case in Nigeria. A Phase 2/3 TUMAINI vaccine trial was launched on 23 October 2026.
Why does it matter?
The outbreak is large, geographically expanding, and characterised by high community deaths and incomplete contact follow-up, increasing the risk of cross‑border spread. There are no approved vaccines or specific treatments for Bundibugyo virus disease, so surveillance, rapid case detection, infection control and contact tracing remain essential.
How to interpret the evidence
People at greatest risk are those living in or moving through health areas with active transmission in affected provinces. Key uncertainties include incomplete travel histories and evolving transmission dynamics; WHO has reassessed regional risk and is revising the rapid risk assessment. EU/Malta risk is not assumed; local access to trial vaccines or specialised care is not guaranteed.
What remains uncertain?
This report does not indicate widespread community transmission outside the documented cluster in Kenya or confirm sustained transmission in Nigeria. The launched trial does not imply an approved or widely available vaccine. WHO advises against travel or trade restrictions based on current evidence.
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This summary was prepared with AI assistance and checked automatically against the linked primary source. It has not been individually reviewed by a clinician.