UKHSA Health Protection Briefing Note 2026/30 Expanding Outbreak of Ebola disease caused by Bundibugyo virus in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and confirmed case in Kenya

Dear colleagues,

The purpose of this briefing note is to detail the clinical and public health response.

Following an initial outbreak of Ebola virus disease (EBOD) in May 2026. The outbreak continues to expand within the DRC. There is increased risk of cases being exported to nearby countries, particularly those bordering the affected regions. Further information on this outbreak and surrounding areas can be found here.

Clinicians should be aware of this expanding outbreak in the DRC and should consider EBOD when assessing unwell patients presenting where there is a history of travel to the DRC or to other countries where there is a risk of EBOD, including Kenya, or a link to a suspected case within 21 days before onset of illness.

If you have any queries about the information cascaded, please follow the instructions in the briefing note for support.  

Please note: This is being cascaded on behalf of UKHSA