UK Launches Trial for New Ebola Vaccine Amidst Third-Largest Outbreak in Congo
July 13, 2026
The Bundibugyo outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo is the third-largest Ebola outbreak on record, with more than 1,800 confirmed cases and around 600 deaths, and there are currently no approved drugs or vaccines for this strain.
The report highlights ongoing global collaboration and rapid mobilization to respond to evolving Ebola outbreaks, with coverage from news partners and UK radio updates.
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Professor Teresa Lambe notes urgency due to the Bundibugyo outbreak and rapid progress toward Phase I trials, coming 57 days after the WHO declared the outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.
Source attribution is to Health and Me and writer Rachel V Thomas, with an updated timestamp in the afternoon of July 13, 2026.
Collaborations with partners in Uganda aim to prepare for trials in Africa and accelerate development across regions affected by the outbreak.
The Bundibugyo ebolavirus outbreak is described as the third-largest on record, with rising case numbers.
The effort is framed as an example of British science delivering rapid, careful, life-saving results that matter globally.
A UK safety and immune-response trial for a new Ebola vaccine, ChAdOx1 BDBV, has been launched by Oxford researchers using the same viral-vector technology as the COVID-19 vaccine.
Recruitment is underway and vaccinations are expected to begin in the coming weeks, pending regulatory approval.
Adar Poonawalla of Serum Institute of India emphasizes speed, preparedness, and global collaboration in rapid vaccine development during outbreaks.
Summary based on 9 sources
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Sources

Economic Times • Jul 13, 2026
First vaccine for Bundibugyo Ebola hits human trials in Oxford study
Greatest Hits Radio (Oxfordshire) • Jul 13, 2026
Ebola outbreak: University of Oxford tests new vaccine developed in UK
The Independent • Jul 13, 2026
First human trials of new Ebola vaccine begin at Oxford University
The Mighty 790 KFGO | KFGO • Jul 13, 2026
Oxford begins first human trial of Bundibugyo Ebola vaccine