The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is currently grappling with a significant Ebola outbreak in its conflict-plagued Ituri province, which was initially declared on May 15, 2026. As of May 31, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported a revised figure of 116 suspected Ebola cases in central Africa, a substantial reduction from over 900 previously, with 330 cases now confirmed in the DRC. Additionally, nine confirmed cases, including one fatality, have been registered in neighboring Uganda. The Bundibugyo strain of the virus, responsible for this outbreak, initially presents with symptoms similar to flu, malaria, or typhoid, which can delay detection and complicate surveillance. Many initial suspected cases have been subsequently cleared after testing revealed other underlying diseases. In an effort to both manage the outbreak and facilitate travel, the main airport in Bunia, the capital of Ituri, reopened on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, following a 10-day closure during which enhanced health measures were implemented to protect travelers.

Kenya has also found itself embroiled in Ebola-related concerns following an incident at AAR Hospital in Nairobi on Monday, June 1, 2026. A Turkish national reportedly checked into the facility exhibiting symptoms resembling those of the Ebola virus. The individual became uncooperative, expressing a desire to go home, which prompted the hospital management to escalate the matter to the authorities. Journalists from The Standard, pursuing the story, faced challenges at the hospital; despite being initially cleared by the administration, they were subsequently barred by security personnel who attempted to remove them. Police reports later confirmed that samples collected from the patient tested negative for Ebola, effectively ruling out fears of an active case. A senior police officer clarified that while they are aware of such cases, their role in health security does not involve arrests for falling ill. The incident, considered to be of a “diplomatic nature,” led to the notification of OCS Muthaiga for advice due to the patient's reluctance to undergo quarantine until test results were conclusive.

Further intensifying Kenya’s role in the regional health landscape is a highly contentious proposal for a US-backed Ebola quarantine facility at Laikipia Air Base. This 50-bed unit, constructed by the US military approximately 200 kilometers from Nairobi, is intended to serve American citizens who have been exposed to the Ebola virus but remain asymptomatic. Should these individuals develop symptoms, they would be transferred to specialized facilities in Europe rather than being repatriated to the United States. President William Ruto defended the project, stating that he approved the deal because it was part of a long-standing agreement with the US, which he referred to as