DR Congo: Ebola outbreak 2026: What is MSF doing and how can I help?

Countries: Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda Source: Médecins Sans Frontières Ebola outbreak 2026: What is MSF doing and how can I help?MSF is mobilizing teams of medical, logistical, and support staff in response to this public health emergency. Leila Rafei May 19 2026, 3:14pm Responding to this outbreak is difficult as it involves the Bundibugyo virus, for which there is no approved treatment or vaccine. So far, there have been more than 536 patients with suspected cases and 134 suspected deaths in DRC. Some cases have been confirmed in North Kivu province, including its densely populated capital, Goma. There have also been two patients with confirmed cases in Uganda , including one who died. However, the real extent of the outbreak remains unknown due to the lack of diagnostics and underreporting of cases. What to know about the Ebola outbreak What is Ebola disease? Ebola disease is a rare but deadly viral illness that can kill up to 90 percent of those infected. It can be difficult to diagnose because the early symptoms, like fever and sore throat, are common. To confirm an Ebola diagnosis, special laboratory tests need to be carried out. Ebola is highly infectious and can be transmitted by both animals and humans. Human-to-human transmission happens through close contact with blood, secretions, or other bodily fluids of infected people. This is why people have to wear full personal protective equipment to prevent catching or spreading the virus. Ebola disease is caused by four different viruses. While there is an approved treatment and a preventive vaccine for the Zaire virus , there is no approved vaccine or treatment for the Bundibugyo virus currently spreading in DRC. Medical teams can give patients the best chance of survival by helping to manage the symptoms of the virus and trea...

Original source: Relief Web