WHO Plans 2-Drug Ebola Trial in DRC, Uganda as Bundibugyo Cases Reach 336
Updated
Updated · Scientific American · May 19
WHO Plans 2-Drug Ebola Trial in DRC, Uganda as Bundibugyo Cases Reach 336
6 articles · Updated · Scientific American · May 19
A WHO-backed clinical trial is being prepared to test remdesivir and MBP134 against Ebola Bundibugyo in DRC and Uganda, pending approval from both governments.
336 suspected cases and 88 deaths had been linked to the outbreak by May 17, while no approved treatment or vaccine exists for the Bundibugyo species.
MBP134 enters the trial with the strongest preclinical support: a 2019 study found 5 of 6 infected monkeys recovered, and Mapp says enough doses are available through the US government.
Vaccine options are thinner, with African health officials weighing whether Ervebo—approved for Ebola Zaire—could be tested despite uncertain cross-protection that one expert put near 50%.
Researchers said a prolonged outbreak could allow enough enrollment to determine whether either treatment or any vaccine strategy actually works against Bundibugyo.
A monkey trial showed 'profound recovery.' Can this experimental antibody cocktail be the key to stopping the deadly Ebola Bundibugyo outbreak?
In a region facing conflict and another viral outbreak, can health officials win the race against this rare and deadly Ebola strain?
Bundibugyo Ebola Outbreak 2026: Largest Recorded Surge Highlights Urgent Gaps in Diagnostics, Vaccines, and Regional Response
Overview
The Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak is rapidly expanding, with initial tests showing a high positivity rate and confirmed cases in both urban and semi-urban areas like Kampala and Ituri province. The situation is made worse by increasing reports of suspected cases and deaths, suggesting the outbreak is much larger than currently detected. Factors such as ongoing insecurity, humanitarian crises, and high population mobility are driving the virus’s spread, raising substantial local and regional risks. The combination of these challenges highlights the urgent need for coordinated action to contain the outbreak and prevent further escalation.