health

Uganda closes its border with Congo over Ebola outbreak

Updated on: May 27, 2026 / 9:10 PM EDT / CBS/AP

Uganda closes its border with Congo over Ebola outbreak

TL;DR

  • Uganda has closed its border with Congo due to a surge in suspected Ebola cases.
  • The Bundibugyo type of Ebola has no approved medicines or vaccines.
  • Congo has 121 confirmed Ebola cases and 17 confirmed deaths, plus over 1,000 suspected cases and 246 suspected deaths.
  • Uganda has reported seven confirmed Ebola cases, including one death.
  • The closure is contrary to WHO guidance, which warns that closures increase the spread of disease through informal crossings.
  • The U.S. is establishing a facility in Kenya for Americans exposed to or infected with Ebola.
  • U.S.-bound travelers from Congo, Uganda, or South Sudan must undergo enhanced screenings at designated airports.