Makerere scientists discover genetic changes in Ebola Bundibugyo virus

What the report says

The Independent Uganda, citing URN, reports that Makerere University scientists have detected genetic changes in the Ebola Bundibugyo virus that may weaken some diagnostic tests built around the strain’s earlier genetic profile. The findings come during continued transmission in the Democratic Republic of Congo, with Uganda reporting no active Bundibugyo cases after its last patient was discharged last week.

The article says the Bundibugyo strain was first identified in Uganda’s Bundibugyo District in 2007, in an outbreak that recorded 149 confirmed cases and 42 deaths. Col. Dr Henry Kyobe, described as a senior research scientist and Ministry of Health incident commander, said genomic analysis suggests the currently circulating virus differs from the original strain and may be evolving in ways not seen before. Researchers also raised questions about possible changes affecting animal hosts, which could matter for understanding transmission.

Prof. Bruce Kirenga of Makerere’s College of Health Sciences said existing tests may be less reliable if they target genetic sequences that have shifted. He said the research team is using the new genomic data to develop diagnostic kits in Uganda that are better matched to the current strain, and to support surveillance of the DRC outbreak.

The report places the findings in the context of ongoing work on vaccines and treatments for Ebola Bundibugyo, for which it says no approved vaccine or treatment currently exists. It notes an Oxford Phase I vaccine trial and treatment studies already enrolling patients. Prof. Wilber Sabiiti of ICER said ongoing studies indicate Remdesivir remains effective, while stressing that more research is still needed. The Independent reported DRC had 2,344 confirmed cases and 930 deaths as of Monday.