Clinical Scorecard: WHO Warns Ebola Cases May Be Missed

At a Glance

Key Highlights

• 336 suspected cases and 88 deaths reported as of May 16, 2026.
• True number of infections estimated to be between 400 to 800 cases.
• Two confirmed cases detected in Uganda among travelers from DRC.
• Epidemiologic modeling suggests significant underreporting of cases.
• Central role of diagnostics and surveillance emphasized.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

• Emphasize the need for laboratory confirmation in outbreak settings.

Management

• Implement robust surveillance systems to capture true case numbers.

Monitoring & Follow-up

• Continuous assessment of case detection and transmission dynamics.

Risks

• Potential for significant underreporting of cases and community spread.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Individuals suspected of or confirmed with Bundibugyo virus disease.

Further clinical and laboratory data required for effective management.

Clinical Best Practices

• Strengthen outbreak detection and response capabilities.
• Utilize cross-border travel data for transmission estimation.
• Incorporate historical data for mortality and disease progression estimates.

Related Resources & Content

• WHO Report on Ebola