KAMPALA, June 13, 2026 — The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention [ Africa CDC ] has warned that the Bundibugyo Virus Disease outbreak mostly affecting the Democratic Republic of the Congo [DRC] remains a serious public health threat, with confirmed infections rising to 708 and deaths reaching 141.
According to the latest situation update issued 11 June 11, the outbreak has recorded an overall case fatality rate of nearly 20 per cent.
The DRC remains the hardest-hit country, reporting 689 confirmed cases and 139 deaths, while Uganda has recorded 19 confirmed cases and two deaths.
Africa CDC said Ituri Province in eastern DRC continues to be the epicentre of the outbreak, accounting for the vast majority of infections. The most affected health zones are Bunia, Rwampara and Mongbwalu, while North Kivu has also registered cases. South Kivu has not reported any new infections since May 26.
In Uganda, confirmed cases have been concentrated in Kampala, with no new transmission reported in the latest update.
Health authorities said the outbreak continues to span multiple health zones in the DRC and one district in Uganda, with concerns persisting over cross-border movement, community fears, pressure on local health systems and ongoing gaps in surveillance and clinical response capacity.
Emergency coordination mechanisms remain active in both countries, with national and provincial incident management systems leading response efforts.
Africa CDC said surveillance, contact tracing, laboratory testing, case management, infection prevention and control measures, traveller screening and community engagement activities are continuing across affected areas.
More than 400 alerts were reported on June 11, with most investigated. Uganda achieved full follow-up of listed contacts, while authorities in the DRC continue efforts to strengthen contact tracing and community-based surveillance in heavily affected areas.
Laboratory testing remains central to confirming infections and guiding public health action. Ebola Treatment Centres are operational in affected locations, with additional treatment and isolation capacity being expanded.
At border points and control areas, traveller screening and public sensitisation remain underway. During the latest reporting period, more than 12,000 travellers were screened in Ituri and more than 14,000 in Uganda.
Africa CDC and the World Health Organization continue to advise against unnecessary restrictions on trade and travel, while recommending evidence-based public health measures.
The agency said infection prevention efforts are being intensified through training of health workers, strengthened waste management systems, decontamination measures and improved protection for frontline responders.
Public health officials stressed that community trust remains central to containing the outbreak. Risk communication campaigns are being used to counter misinformation, encourage acceptance of isolation and treatment, and promote safe and dignified burial practices.
Authorities urged people in affected and at-risk areas to report symptoms early, avoid direct contact with bodily fluids of sick or deceased individuals, cooperate with contact tracing teams and seek care through official health channels.
Africa CDC said sustained support is still needed across surveillance, laboratory services, clinical care, infection prevention, logistics, water and sanitation, communications and protection of healthcare workers.
Priority requirements include diagnostic supplies, personal protective equipment, treatment facilities, isolation units, safe burial materials, emergency logistics and trained personnel.
The continental health agency called on development partners to align support with national response plans and maintain coordinated action to interrupt transmission and save lives.
Africa CDC said it would continue providing technical assistance, surveillance support, partner coordination and resource mobilisation as the situation evolves.
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