CDC issues travel alert as Bundibugyo virus outbreak confirmed in Congo

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is currently experiencing an outbreak of Bundibugyo virus disease (BVD) in the Ituri province. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 2 travel health notice for the region, advising travellers to practice enhanced precautions.

Bundibugyo virus disease is a type of Ebola disease caused by infection with the Bundibugyo virus. While Ebola outbreaks in the DRC have historically involved the more common Zaire Ebola virus strain, preliminary laboratory results from this outbreak suggest it is driven by an uncommon strain that diverges from those typical cases.

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed the outbreak on Friday, identifying the location as Northeastern Ituri province. The US CDC was informed of the situation on Thursday, leading to the rapid issuance of the Level 2 advisory which highlights the need for heightened vigilance among those travelling to the area.

In response to the emerging health crisis, the World Health Organization (WHO) deployed a team to the DRC on May 5 after receiving signals of suspected cases. The agency is currently assisting the local health ministry in managing the response to the outbreak.

To support immediate response efforts, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus announced the release of $500,000 from the Contingency Fund for Emergencies. This funding is intended to bolster the capacity of the DRC health ministry as it works to contain the spread of the virus.

While the specific number of confirmed cases and deaths for this particular Bundibugyo outbreak is not detailed in the current reports, the coordinated efforts of international health agencies underscore the seriousness with which the situation is being treated. Travellers to the region are urged to adhere to the CDC’s guidance on enhanced precautions.