The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is closely monitoring an outbreak of Ebola disease caused by the Bundibugyo virus in remote areas of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Uganda. As of now, no cases have been confirmed in the United States, and the risk to the American public remains low.
This outbreak, identified in early May 2026, has affected healthcare workers in the Bunia Health Zone of northeastern DRC. Initial tests revealed that 8 out of 13 samples were positive for an orthoebolavirusspecifically the Bundibugyo virus, one of the four types that cause Ebola disease in humans.
CDC’s travel advisories and health measures
The CDC has issued Travel Health Notices for DRC and Uganda, advising against non-essential travel to the Ituri, Nord-Kivu, and Sud-Kivu provinces in DRC. Travelers to these regions are urged to take precautions to avoid exposure to Ebola and monitor for symptoms for 21 days after leaving.
In collaboration with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the CDC has implemented enhanced travel screening and entry restrictions. Affected air passengers from DRC, South Sudan, and Uganda will be rerouted to specific U.S. airports for public health entry screening. These airports include Washington-Dulles International Airport (IAD), Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL), George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), and John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK).
Public health entry screening process
Travelers arriving from affected countries will undergo a screening process that may include a brief questionnaire, temperature check, and observation for signs of illness. Those without symptoms will receive information about monitoring their health for 21 days post-travel. Travelers exhibiting symptoms will receive further evaluation and, if necessary, be transferred to a hospital for isolation and treatment.
Risk assessment and CDC response
The CDC has assessed the risk to the U.S. population as low, given the robust public health system and infection control measures in place. However, the agency continues to evaluate the situation and may adjust measures as needed.
CDC is working both internationally and domestically to respond to the outbreak and prevent Ebola from entering the United States. This includes supporting state and local health departments in traveler monitoring efforts, coordinating with airlines and international partners, and enhancing port health protection response activities.
Guidance for travelers and the public
Travelers who have recently been in affected areas are encouraged to monitor for Ebola symptoms and seek medical attention immediately if symptoms develop. The CDC has also provided guidance for people who recently traveled to DRC, Uganda, or South Sudan, including what to do if they feel sick after travel.
For Americans going about their daily lives, including those with travel plans that do not involve the affected countries, there is no recommended change in behavior at this time.
Outbreak projection and historical context
A CDC analysis of available data examines the potential size of the outbreak over the coming months, running various scenarios to inform public health actions. The modeling suggests that strong, immediate support is crucial to controlling the current outbreak.
Historically, there have been two previous outbreaks of Bundibugyo virus, one in Uganda (2007) and one in DRC (2012), with death rates of 32% and 55%, respectively. This outbreak is now the largest caused by the Bundibugyo virus.
The CDC’s proactive measures and continuous evaluation aim to safeguard public health and prevent the spread of Ebola disease. Stay informed about the Latest Updates and follow the CDC’s guidance to ensure your safety and the safety of others.
