Friday June 5, 2026
A major Ebola outbreak caused by the Bundibugyo virus is underway in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda. The WHO has declared it a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. The risk of importation to Australia remains very low, but vigilance is essential.
When to suspect Ebola Consider Ebola in patients with:
- Fever >38°C, AND
- Travel to an outbreak/endemic area, or contact with a confirmed case or their bodily fluids within the past 21 days.
Immediate actions
- Isolate immediately in a single room with infection control precautions.
- Seek urgent infectious diseases advice.
- Notify the Local Public Health Unit immediately: 1300 651 160.
- If contacted by a patient at risk, follow the same steps and notify immediately.
Current situation As of 27 May 2026:
- DRC: 1,077 suspected cases, 121 confirmed, 17 confirmed deaths.
- Uganda: 7 confirmed cases, 1 death. There are no vaccines or specific treatments for Bundibugyo virus; care is supportive.
Further guidance Refer to the Victorian Guidelines for Viral Haemorrhagic Fevers for Health Services for investigation, testing and management requirements.
Read the full Chief Health Officer Advisotry here.