Ebola outbreak now third largest recorded and "spreading rapidly"
The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has escalated to become the third largest recorded, with 177 deaths and nearly 750 cases reported. The World Health Organization has raised the risk level to 'very high' at the national level as the virus continues to spread rapidly. Challenges in controlling the outbreak are compounded by armed conflict, weak health systems, and a lack of established vaccines or therapeutics for the uncommon Bundibugyo virus.
- ▪The outbreak was first reported on May 15, 2026, and has rapidly increased in severity.
- ▪WHO has traced around 1,400 contacts related to the outbreak.
- ▪The Bundibugyo virus lacks established vaccines or therapeutics, complicating response efforts.
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Lack of compassion Ebola outbreak now third largest recorded and “spreading rapidly” Ebola outbreak risk level increased as deaths reach 177 with nearly 750 cases. Beth Mole – May 22, 2026 6:24 pm | 12 Medical personnel at CBCA Virunga Hospital wear gowns, masks, and protective gear as they prepare an isolation room for a female patient placed under 21-day observation in the suspected cases area in Goma, on May 21, 2026. Credit: Getty | Jospin Mwisha Medical personnel at CBCA Virunga Hospital wear gowns, masks, and protective gear as they prepare an isolation room for a female patient placed under 21-day observation in the suspected cases area in Goma, on May 21, 2026.
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