Africa CDC announced on October 21 that African health ministers will meet online on October 28, 2026, to coordinate action against an Ebola outbreak now affecting Central, Eastern and Western Africa. The agency said the Bundibugyo virus outbreak continues in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, with cases also reported in Kenya and Nigeria.
The meeting will assess the situation, speed support to affected countries and strengthen cross-border coordination, according to Africa CDC. Director General Jean Kaseya called for faster collective action and stronger political leadership. The agency declared a continental health security emergency on May 18.
Nigeria's health ministry confirmed a case in Abuja on October 20 after laboratory testing. It said the patient, a woman who recently travelled from Uganda, was in isolation and receiving care. WHO said investigators were still establishing the likely source of infection and her full travel and exposure history.
Nigerian authorities identified 44 contacts and began monitoring people who might have been exposed, including health workers, patients, caregivers and travel contacts, the ministry said. The private hospital that treated the patient was receiving support to strengthen infection prevention. WHO said Nigeria had activated its incident management system.
WHO and partners are supporting investigations, contact tracing and supplies of protective equipment. The organization urged regional readiness, safe laboratory testing and prepared clinical teams, while advising against restrictions on travel or trade with affected countries. Its statement reported nine cases in Kenya linked to an imported infection.
Africa CDC said the ministerial discussions would also help prepare a summit of heads of state and government. It urged countries to reinforce surveillance, community engagement and protection for frontline health workers. The October 28 meeting is intended to strengthen the collective response as the outbreak crosses borders.
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