DR Congo launches first Ebola vaccine trial targeting Bundibugyo strain

The first human trial of an Ebola vaccine against the Bundibugyo strain started in Bunia, Ituri province, on Oct 23, 2026.

What Happened

The trial, called Tumaini (Swahili for “hope”), used the Ervebo vaccine, already approved for the Zaire strain, to test whether it can protect against Bundibugyo. The first dose was given to a volunteer in Bunia, the outbreak’s epicentre. The study will follow a ring‑vaccination method, immunising people who have been in close contact with confirmed cases.

Reaction

WHO Director‑General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus posted on X that science offers hope and that WHO supports the DRC‑led effort. WHO emergencies director Chikwe Ihekweazu said the trial aims to produce solid data on vaccine effectiveness. DRC Ebola response incident manager Steve Ahuka‑Mundeke called the trial an important step for affected communities.

What’s Next

Two Bundibugyo‑specific vaccine candidates, currently in early‑stage trials, will be added to the Tumaini platform once CEPI funding is confirmed. The trial will also enrol pregnant women and children aged 12 years and older, groups often left out of vaccine studies.

Context

Bundibugyo Ebola has no licensed vaccine, unlike the Zaire strain. The current outbreak in the DRC has surpassed 9,700 infections and 4,600 deaths, making it the country’s deadliest Ebola episode. Demonstrating cross‑protection could change how future outbreaks are managed.