Ebola disease outbreak in east-central Africa
A large outbreak of Ebola disease (Bundibugyo virus) has been reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, with spread to Uganda. The WHO declared a public health emergency of international concern on 16 May 2026.
Risk to Australia
Risk remains low
Very low travel volumes from affected regions
No cases have ever been reported in Australia
What to look for
Consider Ebola in patients with:
Fever (>38°C), and
Travel to affected country in past 21 days, and
Plausible exposure (contact with case, healthcare/humanitarian work, funerals)
Early symptoms are non-specific: fever, headache, myalgia, fatigue.
Key points for GPs
Transmission is via direct contact with bodily fluids of a symptomatic person
Asymptomatic transmission not reported
More common diagnoses (e.g. malaria) are more likely in returned travellers with fever
If suspected
Isolate immediately (single room, surgical mask)
Use PPE (P2/N95, gown, eye protection, gloves)
Notify PHU urgently: 1300 066 055
Do not collect specimens without PHU advice
Key message
Risk is low, but maintain vigilance for febrile travellers with relevant exposure history.
Find out more: NSW Health Clinician Alert: Ebola disease