Tuesday, 9 June 2026, 13:00–14:00 (CEST)
Background
An outbreak of Ebola virus disease caused by the Bundibugyo virus was declared on 15 May 2026 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), with cross-border spread to Uganda. The World Health Organization has classified the event as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern due to its severity and potential for international spread.
As of late May 2026, hundreds of suspected cases and confirmed infections have been reported, with transmission concentrated in eastern DRC. Challenges in contact follow-up, insecure conditions, and inadequate isolation and referral systems complicating response efforts. National authorities, in collaboration with WHO and partners, are implementing response measures including deployment of rapid response teams, delivery of medical supplies, strengthened surveillance, laboratory confirmation, infection prevention and control assessments, the set-up of safe and optimized treatment centers, and community engagement.
This webinar will explain why this outbreak is significant, WHO recommendations and the rationale behind them.
Objectives
- Provide an overview of current knowledge on Ebola Bundibugyo virus disease, including epidemiology, transmission, clinical features, and role of communities.
- Explain available WHO guidance on this outbreak
- Highlight practical information for preparedness and readiness of WHO Member States
Agenda and speakers
Introduction: EPI-WIN Science and Knowledge Translation, WHO
Welcome remarks: Speaker TBC
The current epidemiological situation: Boris Pavlin, Team Lead, Epidemiology & Analytics for Response, Health Emergency Alert & Response Operations Department, WHE
Border health and ports of entry: Ninglan Wang, Unit Head, Mass Gatherings & Health Protection Measures, Department of Health Emergency Preparedness (HSP), WHE
Community protection: Tom Moran, Technical Officer, Community Protection and Resilience, HSP, WHE
Interactive Q&A with speakers
Closing and next EPI-WIN: EPI-WIN Science and Knowledge Translation, WHO