Congo Ebola outbreak fastest-growing

The Democratic Republic of the Congo is experiencing the fastest-growing Ebola outbreak in history, caused by the rare Bundibugyo virus with no approved vaccines or treatments. As of July 23, 2026, over 2,473 infections and 1,031 deaths have been reported across five provinces, including Ituri and Kisangani, with cases also in Uganda. The World Health Organization declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern on May 17. The outbreak is complicated by attacks on healthcare workers, strikes by unpaid staff, rebel activity, and misinformation. The United States — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns of potential escalation. NanoViricides has received approval from the DRC Pillar Committee for a Phase II trial of NV-387 Oral Gummies, a broad-spectrum antiviral. The WHO has begun a study of remdesivir (Gilead Sciences) and MBP134 (Mapp Biopharmaceutical). The U.S. CDC models suggest 10,000-20,000 cases in the next three months.