What to know about the Bundibugyo virus, a species of Ebola causing an outbreak in Congo

An outbreak in Congo, suspected of killing more than 200 people, is being driven by the rare Bundibugyo virus. This species of Ebola is less common than others, which is currently complicating the medical response.

“There’s nothing even close to ready for clinical trials,” said Dr. Celine Gounder, an infectious disease specialist and epidemiologist who treated patients during the 2014-2016 Ebola epidemic in West Africa. Because of this gap, responders and healthcare workers are relying on basic containment and care protocols.

The World Health Organization recently noted that while advisory groups have identified potential vaccines and therapies, they recommend these be used exclusively in clinical trials. Ensuring these tools are safe and effective could require months of development.

Understanding the Bundibugyo Virus

The Bundibugyo virus has previously caused two other outbreaks, all located within the Congo River basin. It was first identified in 2007 by Dr. Tom Ksiazek, a virologist and veterinarian with the University of Texas Medical Branch.

This virus is one of several that cause Ebola disease, alongside the Sudan virus, the Taï Forest virus, and the Ebola virus, which is sometimes referred to as the Zaire virus.

Did You Know? The Bundibugyo virus was first identified in 2007 by Dr. Tom Ksiazek, who then directed the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Special Pathogens Branch.

Transmission and Patient Risks

The virus spreads through close contact with the bodily fluids of sick or deceased patients, including blood, sweat, vomit, or feces. Experts note that family members and healthcare workers caring for the sick face the highest risk of infection.

Dr. Gounder, editor-at-large for public health at KFF Health News, observed that doctors and nurses are often among the first to be infected and die. While Bundibugyo may be slightly less deadly than the Sudan or Zaire viruses, it remains extremely dangerous.

Health experts suggest a mortality rate of 30% or more, though Dr. Gounder noted that a lack of extensive experience makes it difficult to provide a precise figure.

Medical Care and Containment

In previous Bundibugyo outbreaks, early identification of cases allowed for a rapid public health response. This included isolating exposed individuals and providing healthcare workers with proper protective equipment.

Supportive medical care, such as the administration of oral or IV fluids, can significantly reduce mortality. These “back to basics” measures are critical when specific antiviral treatments are unavailable.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that the current crisis highlights a precarious trade-off in global health: the tension between the urgent need for intervention and the rigorous, time-consuming requirements of clinical trials to ensure patient safety.

Potential Vaccines and Therapies

Global health officials have identified three promising vaccine candidates that may eventually help combat the virus. One is a Bundibugyo-specific version of the Ervebo platform being developed by the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative, which could take at least seven months before clinical testing.

We Responded to Ebola. Here's Why This Outbreak Terrifies Us. | Read & subscribe: celinegounder.com

A second candidate from India’s Serum Institute uses the Oxford University/AstraZeneca platform and could potentially be available for trials in two to three months, pending further animal testing. A third candidate from Moderna uses mRNA technology and may move to broader clinical testing if early safety tests are successful.

Regarding treatments, independent experts recommend prioritizing antibody therapies from Mapp Biopharmaceutical and Regeneron, as well as Gilead Sciences’ remdesivir. Mapp’s MBP134 specifically targets several forms of Ebola, including Bundibugyo.

the WHO suggested studying an experimental Gilead drug called obeldesivir. This antiviral is currently in mid-stage clinical trials and may be evaluated for its ability to protect people exposed to the virus.

The Path to Containment

Public health workers are currently focusing on contact tracing, isolating cases, and educating the public on avoidance. Safe burial methods are also emphasized, as preparing bodies for funeral rites was a key driver of spread during the West African epidemic.

Lina Moses, an epidemiologist and disease ecologist at Tulane University, emphasized that while vaccines are powerful tools, public education and quick testing remain effective. She noted that the Democratic Republic of the Congo has successfully stopped all 17 Ebola outbreaks that have occurred there to date.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is the Bundibugyo virus transmitted to other people?
The virus is spread through close contact with the bodily fluids of sick or deceased patients, such as blood, sweat, feces, or vomit.

Are there currently any approved vaccines for the Bundibugyo virus?
No, there are currently no specific vaccines or treatments ready for use; several candidates are in development but would require clinical trials to ensure safety and efficacy.

Which groups are at the highest risk of infection during an outbreak?
Healthcare workers and family members who provide care for sick patients face the highest risk of exposure.

How do you think global health systems can better prepare for rare viral strains that lack existing vaccines?