Scientists from DRC and Uganda have released the first complete genomes of #Bundibugyo #Ebola virus from the May 2026 outbreak, indicating a possible new #spillover event from wild animals as case numbers continue to rise. The genomes, posted on virological website on 17 May 2026, display a distinct genetic lineage that does NOT match any previously sequenced Bundibugyo strains, suggesting a recent introduction from an animal reservoir into humans rather than sustained human‑to‑human transmission. Phylogenetic analysis shows that the new sequences form a separate cluster, supporting the inference of a fresh zoonotic spillover. The most plausible source of this spillover is wildlife inhabiting the Ituri forest, particularly fruit bats or other mammals known to harbor filoviruses, which could have been implicated in earlier outbreaks through hunting or contact with infected animal tissues. Ongoing ecological surveillance in the region will be essential to identify the exact reservoir and to mitigate the risk of future spillover events. More genetic details on virological.org/t/initial-ge… #DRC #Uganda #outbreak #PHEIC