Ebola Outbreak Information

Health officials are monitoring an Ebola outbreak caused by the Bundibugyo virus in parts of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Uganda.

At this time, no cases associated with this outbreak have been reported in the United States. The risk to the general public in Southern Nevada remains low.

The greatest risk is to individuals who are currently in affected areas or who have recently traveled to regions experiencing Ebola transmission.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) began enhanced public health measures for travelers arriving from affected areas on May 21, 2026. Based on travel history and risk assessment, CDC, state health officials and local health departments may work with travelers to monitor for symptoms during the 21-day incubation period.

Individuals who have traveled to affected areas within the past 21 days should contact their local health department or healthcare provider if they develop symptoms consistent with Ebola disease, including fever, severe headache, muscle pain, weakness, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain or unexplained bleeding or bruising.

The Southern Nevada Health District is working closely with the Nevada Division of Public and Behavioral Health and CDC to monitor the situation and ensure appropriate public health measures are in place.

CDC has issued travel notices for affected areas and provides guidance for travelers on how to reduce their risk of exposure.

Additional Resources

• CDC Ebola Outbreak: Current Situation

What Is Ebola Disease?

Ebola disease is a rare but serious illness caused by a group of viruses known as orthoebolaviruses. Several types of these viruses can cause illness in humans, including the Bundibugyo virus responsible for the current outbreak in parts of Central Africa. Ebola disease primarily occurs in sub-Saharan Africa and can affect both humans and certain animals.

How Ebola Spreads

Ebola spreads through direct contact with the blood or other body fluids of a person who is sick with Ebola disease or has died from the disease. Body fluids can include blood, saliva, vomit, urine, feces, sweat, breast milk, semen, and other secretions. The virus also can spread through contact with contaminated objects, such as needles or medical equipment. In rare cases, people can become infected through contact with infected animals.

Ebola is not spread through the air, water, or food. People cannot spread Ebola before symptoms begin. Casual contact, such as passing someone in a public place, does not pose a risk for transmission.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Ebola disease can appear anywhere from 2 to 21 days after exposure to the virus, with most people developing symptoms within 8 to 10 days. Early symptoms often include:

• Fever
• Severe headache
• Muscle pain
• Weakness or fatigue
• Sore throat

As the illness progresses, symptoms may include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Stomach pain
• Rash
• Red eyes
• Unexplained bleeding or bruising

Anyone who develops symptoms after traveling to an area experiencing an Ebola outbreak should seek medical care immediately and notify healthcare providers about their travel history.

Prevention

The best way to prevent Ebola disease is to avoid contact with infected individuals, their body fluids, and contaminated materials. Travelers to affected areas should follow public health guidance and practice good hand hygiene. Healthcare workers caring for patients with suspected or confirmed Ebola disease use specialized infection-control measures and personal protective equipment to prevent transmission.

Health care professionals:

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