The Ministry of Health (MoH) on Thursday issued a press statement confirming that the risk of Bundibugyo virus disease (BVD), a type of Ebola disease, spreading to Brunei Darussalam remains low.
The ministry stated that the current outbreak situation has not been classified as a pandemic emergency and that there is no evidence of local transmission within the country. Based on ongoing risk assessments, the likelihood of BVD spreading in Brunei remains low.
As a precaution, MoH advised members of the public and travellers to avoid non-essential travel to affected areas in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda.
Travellers returning from affected areas who develop symptoms within 21 days are urged to seek immediate medical attention and inform healthcare personnel of their recent travel history.
The update follows the World Health Organisation’s declaration of the outbreak as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) under the International Health Regulations (2005) on May 17, 2026.
Bundibugyo virus disease is a type of Ebola disease caused by the Bundibugyo virus. The virus spreads through direct contact with the blood or bodily fluids of infected individuals or animals, as well as contaminated surfaces or materials. MoH stressed that the virus is not airborne and can only be transmitted after symptoms appear.
Early symptoms include fever, severe headache, fatigue, muscle pain, sore throat and loss of appetite. Severe cases may progress to vomiting, diarrhoea, skin rash, bleeding complications, organ failure and death.
Currently, there is no approved vaccine or specific treatment for BVD, although early medical intervention and supportive care can improve recovery chances.
Ituri Province is currently experiencing an outbreak of BVD, with cases also detected in Uganda and Kinshasa, DRC.
As of May 16, 2026, a total of 246 suspected cases, 80 deaths and eight confirmed cases had been reported across affected areas in Ituri Province.
MoH said it will continue monitoring the situation closely at national, regional and global levels while ensuring preparedness of health services. The public will be informed of any significant developments.
The public is also reminded to maintain good hygiene practices, including frequent handwashing and the use of alcohol-based hand sanitisers.
For further information and updates, members of the public may visit the Ministry of Health Brunei Darussalam’s official website.
THE BRUNEIAN | BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
