The World Health Organisation (WHO) has announced new emergency rules for using the Ervebo vaccine during the Bundibugyo virus disease outbreak. Now, its use is limited to research purposes only.
WHO shared this information in a statement on Tuesday. This decision came after a special meeting of the Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunisation held on 19 August 2026.
The agency stated that Ervebo should only be used against the Bundibugyo virus in research settings. This is to gather evidence on how effective the vaccine is, instead of using it for general outbreak vaccination.
According to WHO, a ring vaccination randomised controlled trial is the best way to find out how well Ervebo works against Bundibugyo virus disease in affected areas.
The organisation noted that wider use of the vaccine before trial results would need a strong risk-mitigation plan. This plan would have to deal with possible risks that come with using the vaccine during an outbreak and ensure quick monitoring of health outcomes for those vaccinated.
“WHO continues recommending preventive Ervebo vaccination for healthcare and frontline workers in Ebola virus priority areas with previous Ebola disease outbreaks,” the statement read.
WHO also highlighted the need for preventive vaccination policy. “In areas affected by the current Bundibugyo outbreak, Ervebo should only support outbreak response through research protocols, including ring trials or observational vaccine-effectiveness studies.” WHO added that it is important to gather evidence.
“Such studies could provide additional evidence about the potential performance of Ervebo against Bundibugyo virus during ongoing outbreaks,” it stated.
The statement mentioned that the results from these studies could help shape future policy and recommendations for vaccines.
The agency said that off-label use of the vaccine could be considered in special cases where research is not possible. This would only happen if there are reliable records to track those vaccinated and follow their health outcomes over time to ensure safety.
WHO called for faster development and thorough evaluation of vaccines specifically for Bundibugyo virus disease. They also emphasized the need for post-exposure products for better outbreak readiness and response, as well as other necessary measures for affected communities around the world.
The organisation urged stronger teamwork among partners helping the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and other countries using Ervebo in research protocols. This is to make sure that implementation is consistent and evidence is shared quickly.
It suggested creating and sharing master protocols for ring vaccination trials and high-quality observational studies. This is to ensure timely and coordinated evidence gathering during the outbreak and for future emergency responses in affected nations.
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