First identified in Uganda in 2007, Bundibugyo ebolavirus is one of the species of the Ebola virus. Although it has historically shown a lower case fatality rate than some other Ebola virus species, typically between 25% and 40%, it remains a serious public health threat because it spreads through direct contact with infected bodily fluids and can rapidly overwhelm fragile healthcare systems.
During 2026, outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda have resulted in more than 1,100 reported cases and around 300 deaths, underscoring the continuing risk posed by Ebola in regions where health systems face significant challenges. The absence of approved vaccines or treatments specifically targeting the Bundibugyo strain further highlights the need for continued research and vaccine development.
To support these efforts, VisMederi has developed a new neutralization assay based on VSV pseudovirus technology. The assay enables the evaluation of vaccine-induced neutralizing antibodies without requiring Biosafety Level 3 laboratories, making it more accessible for research and development activities.
Recognized as the gold standard for assessing the immunogenicity of vaccine candidates, this assay is already available at VisMederi and is designed to support researchers, vaccine developers, and the global scientific community in advancing new countermeasures against Bundibugyo ebolavirus.
