Preparedness and response for imported cases of Ebola disease into an EU/EEA country

The current Ebola disease outbreak caused by Bundibugyo virus (BDBV) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Uganda, which has been ongoing since May 2026, poses significant challenges due to its magnitude and to the complex setting. On 17 May 2026, the outbreak was elevated to a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).

As of today’s date, the overall risk of Ebola disease caused by BDBV for the general population in the EU/EEA is assessed as very low. The importation risk is estimated by ECDC to be approximately one importation per 24 000 travellers (90% Uncertainty Interval, UI: 13 000–54 000) from the main outbreak region (North Kivu and Ituri, DRC) to the EU/EEA, with a low probability. Nevertheless, it is important to be prepared for every eventuality, given the severity of Ebola disease. 

This document is organised into four focus areas, representing the potential health system contact points of an imported Ebola disease case. All four areas must operate effectively and in coordination with public health services to prevent further community transmission.