What are the potential benefits and challenges of using a new Ebola test in Africa?

Today, the World Health Organization (WHO) has added the first molecular diagnostic test for Bundibugyo virus (BDBV) to its Emergency Use Listing (EUL). The test detects the virus by identifying its genetic material in blood samples, helping confirm infection rapidly and accurately. WHO’s EUL procedure assesses the quality, safety and performance of essential health products based on the available evidence, while ensuring they meet minimum international standards and address the needs of low- and middle-income countries. Through this mechanism, WHO aims to accelerate access to reliable diagnostic tools for early case detection, timely clinical care, disease surveillance and effective outbreak response. The EUL also supports United Nations procurement agencies and governments in making informed decisions about the procurement and use of these products in public health emergency settings. "Public health emergencies require not only speed, but also confidence that the health products being used meet standards for quality, safety and performance," said Dr Yukiko Nakatani, WHO Assistant Director-General for Health Systems, Access and Data. "During a fast-moving outbreak, timely access to quality-assured diagnostic tests can make a critical difference in containing transmission. Through this Emergency Use Listing, WHO is helping countries access trusted diagnostic tools more rapidly so that they can respond more effectively.” On 17 May 2026, WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus declared a public health emergency of international concern over the outbreak of Ebola disease caused by Bundibugyo virus in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, with cases in Uganda. Less than two weeks later, WHO launched a call for manufacturers of IVDs for Bundibugyo virus to submit Expressions of Interest for Emergency Use Listing. The listing comes at a critical time as countries respond to the largest recorded outbreak of Ebola disease caused by BDBV, which continu