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Russia Develops Vaccine for New Ebola Strain

  • 28 May 2026

On 26th May 2026, the Russian Embassy in South Africa announced the development of a vaccine against a new Ebola strain that may also offer protection against the rare Bundibugyo strain linked to outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Key Points

  • Regional Spread: The outbreak has also spread to Uganda, where confirmed cases and deaths have been recorded.
  • Public Health Emergency: WHO declared the outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern on May 17, 2026.
  • No Approved Treatment: Currently, there is no approved vaccine or specific treatment for Bundibugyo Ebola.
  • About Ebola: Ebola is a severe viral disease transmitted through contact with infected animals or bodily fluids of infected individuals.
  • Fatality Rate: Ebola outbreaks have historically shown fatality rates ranging from 25 per cent to 90 per cent.