Situation at a glance
The Bundibugyo virus disease (BVD) outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has been escalating quickly, with more confirmed cases and spreading into Uganda. By June 6, there were 515 confirmed cases and 91 deaths reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, while Uganda had documented 19 confirmed cases, including two fatalities. There’s also an additional probable case that resulted in death.
The outbreak in Uganda appears closely tied to the one in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, with evidence suggesting both imported cases and further transmissions among healthcare workers and contacts. Health authorities, alongside WHO and other partners, are implementing a broad response.
On June 5, a collaborative preparedness and response plan for Ebola was introduced by the Africa CDC and WHO, aiming to secure $518 million to assist African nations in preparing and responding to the outbreak.
Description of the situation
Since the last report on May 29, the confirmed cases and deaths have surged in both the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda. Currently, 534 confirmed cases including 93 deaths (case fatality rate at 17.4%) exist across both nations, and at least 17 individuals have recovered from the illness.
In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, there have been 390 new confirmed cases and 74 deaths since May 29. This spike partly results from improved testing capabilities that have allowed previously collected samples to be processed. As of June 6, 515 confirmed cases and 91 deaths (CFR of 17.7%) have been observed. However, the case fatality rate might be an undercount, given that several fatalities occurring prior to the official outbreak declaration are still under review. So far, 12 people have recovered, with cases emerging from 25 health zones across Ituri and North Kivu Provinces.
About 94% of the confirmed cases are concentrated in Ituri Province, which poses a case fatality rate of 15%. Bunia, Rwampara, Mongbwalu, and Nyankunde are the zones reporting the most significant number of cases.
Additionally, as of June 6, 5040 contacts are being monitored across the provinces. Security incidents affecting health facilities have also been creating operational hurdles, impacting access to healthcare and increasing the chances of undetected virus spread. It clearly highlights the importance of community collaboration and local leadership.
In Uganda, an additional 10 confirmed cases and one death were noted since the last update, bringing the total to 19 confirmed cases and two deaths associated with imported cases, plus one probable death. There have been five recoveries. Most cases involve individuals from the Democratic Republic of the Congo who crossed to Uganda, and the exposure risks are mainly linked to healthcare settings and cross-border travel.
Notably, around 70% of these cases involve Congolese nationals seeking medical help in Uganda, including a Congolese individual who traveled through Uganda to the UAE. WHO is currently liaising with authorities in both the UAE and Uganda to gather more insights and assist in tracing contacts.
Epidemiology
Bundibugyo virus disease (BVD) is a severe and often fatal illness related to Ebola, arising from the Bundibugyo virus, which is believed to host in fruit bats. Infection occurs through contact with blood or secretions from infected wildlife and then spreads through bodily fluids of infected humans. Transmission risk is heightened in healthcare settings lacking adequate infection control, and through unsafe burial practices.
Symptoms can take 2 to 21 days to appear, making early detection difficult. Initial symptoms, like fever and fatigue, are non-specific, which complicates clinical evaluations. They then advance to more severe manifestations, sometimes including hemorrhage.
Previously, case fatality rates in outbreak areas have reached as high as 50%. Distinguishing BVD from other febrile illnesses is challenging without lab confirmation. Effective control hinges on rapid case identification, isolation, and community involvement, as there currently aren’t approved vaccines or treatments available.
Public health response
Health authorities from the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda, with WHO support, are executing a range of public health initiatives. These include implementing the continental preparedness plan and engaging donors to overcome funding shortages for response efforts in affected areas.
Key response actions consist of coordinating efforts among agencies, distributing medical supplies, enhancing surveillance, and setting up safe treatment centers, among others.
WHO risk assessment
As of June 6, WHO updated the outbreak risk assessment to reflect new findings. Risks for countries bordering regions with known Bundibugyo virus presence are distinct from other regions. The Democratic Republic of the Congo’s risk remains very high due to ongoing transmission and outbreak expansion.
Uganda’s risk is assessed as high, primarily because of imported cases and links to the cross-border spread of the virus. Other bordering countries share similar risks, while the general risk across the rest of Africa and globally is considered low.
WHO advice
WHO advises against travel or trade restrictions with the Democratic Republic of the Congo or Uganda based on the latest information. They continue to monitor travel and trade practices relevant to this outbreak.
Further information
For ongoing updates, epidemiological reports, and background references on Bundibugyo virus disease, related public health responses and clinical management practices, you can access the latest information available at WHO’s official channels.
