UNICEF Ebola Virus Disease Outbreak Flash Update No. 1 (Democratic Republic of the Congo & Uganda), 26 May 2026

Countries: Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda Source: UN Children's Fund Please refer to the attached file. Highlights: On 17 May 2026, WHO declared the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Uganda a Public Health Emergency of International Concern; Africa CDC declared a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security on 18 May. As of 24 May 2026, the DRC and Uganda had reported 906 suspected cases and 112 confirmed cases, as well as 223 suspected deaths and 11 confirmed deaths1. The outbreak is caused by the Bundibugyo Ebola virus, for which there is no approved vaccine or treatment. The outbreak has spread to major population centers and across international borders, with confirmed cases in Bunia and Goma (DRC) and in Kampala, Uganda, among people with recent travel from affected areas. The risk of further spread is high and growing, driven by population movement along mining corridors, displacement, insecurity, weak infection prevention infrastructure, and sustained cross-border movement. UNICEF has activated its highest emergency classification (Level 3 Corporate Emergency), releasing US$5.75 million in Emergency Programme Funds (internal, reimbursable loan) and scaling up response in DRC and Uganda and preparedness in at-risk neighboring countries. UNICEF and partners are delivering across five priority areas: risk communication and community engagement (RCCE); infection prevention and control (IPC) and WASH; community-based surveillance; continuity of essential services; and leadership and coordination.

Original source: Relief Web