DRC Reports 782 Ebola Cases, 181 Deaths in 3rd-Largest Outbreak as Bundibugyo Spreads
Updated
Updated · Scientific American · Jun 16
DRC Reports 782 Ebola Cases, 181 Deaths in 3rd-Largest Outbreak as Bundibugyo Spreads
3 articles · Updated · Scientific American · Jun 16
Summary
782 confirmed cases and at least 181 deaths had been reported in the DRC by June 13, making the Bundibugyo-virus epidemic the country’s third-largest Ebola outbreak on record.
Late detection helped the outbreak expand quickly, and scientists say the rare Bundibugyo strain is harder to contain because no approved vaccine or treatment exists.
Lancet Infectious Diseases estimates suggested substantial underdetection: two models put the outbreak at 282 to 2,521 cases as of May 27, based on deaths, growth rates and cross-border spread.
Ituri has recorded most infections, but cases have also appeared elsewhere in the DRC and in Uganda, which had reported three confirmed imported cases by May 27.
Researchers say weak health systems, conflict and uncertain fatality and transmission rates still cloud how large the outbreak could become and how long it may last.
With standard Ebola tests failing, how many thousands of cases are spreading completely undetected?
This rare Ebola virus has no vaccine. Is the world ready for the next unknown plague?
Bundibugyo Virus Outbreak in DRC: 676 Cases, 136 Deaths, and the Global Race for Vaccines Amid Conflict and Crisis (June 2026)
Overview
As of June 15, 2026, the Democratic Republic of Congo is facing a fast-growing outbreak of Bundibugyo virus disease. The outbreak began in early May with a cluster of severe illnesses among healthcare workers in the Bunia Health Zone, and genetic testing confirmed Bundibugyo virus as the cause. By June 10, there were 676 confirmed cases and 136 deaths, with the situation worsening as cases and affected areas increase. This marks the 17th Ebola-related outbreak in Congo in recent decades, highlighting the country’s ongoing struggle with recurring and expanding viral threats.