The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has explained why no approved vaccine is currently available for the Ebola strain responsible for the ongoing outbreak in parts of Africa.
The agency said the outbreak is being driven by the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus, for which there is currently no licensed vaccine or specific treatment.
According to Africa CDC, vaccines developed for previous Ebola outbreaks cannot automatically protect against the Bundibugyo strain because different Ebola virus species require specific medical countermeasures.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has also confirmed that the vaccine currently licensed for the Zaire strain of Ebola does not provide an established solution for the Bundibugyo strain.
The absence of an approved vaccine and specific treatment has complicated efforts to contain the outbreak, particularly in areas where healthcare infrastructure, diagnostic services and infection-control resources are limited.
Africa CDC has attributed some of the challenges to inadequate investment in research and development for diseases that disproportionately affect low-income countries.
The agency has called for increased funding and international cooperation to accelerate the development of vaccines and treatments for the strain.
Despite the absence of an approved vaccine, Africa CDC said the outbreak could be controlled through established public health measures, including early detection of cases, isolation of infected people, contact tracing, infection prevention and control, safe burial practices and community engagement.
Health authorities have also stressed the importance of strengthening healthcare facilities and protecting medical workers involved in treating patients.
The WHO has advised people in affected areas to avoid contact with suspected cases and their bodily fluids, maintain good hand hygiene and follow guidance from public health officials.
Research into candidate vaccines and treatments for the Bundibugyo strain is ongoing, but no licensed vaccine or specific antiviral treatment was available for the strain as of October 2026.
