90-Second Read: Amid Ebola and Hantavirus, science-based information critical for communities as countries strengthen preparedness

False claims such as, consuming alcohol can prevent Ebola or Hantavirus, only increase health risks. Effective public health responses depend on facts, science-based guidance and solidarity rather than assumptions about people based on their nationality, ethnicity or place of origin.Preparedness across the South-East Asia RegionThe current risk of BVD in the Region is low. WHO continues to work closely with Member States and partners to strengthen preparedness and response capacities while promoting calm, informed and science-based public health action across the Region. Accurate information helps protect communitiesMisinformation often spreads rapidly during outbreaks and can increase health risks, delay care-seeking and undermine public health response.

On 17 May 2026, WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus declared the Ebola outbreak in the DRC and Uganda, caused by the Bundibugyo virus, a 'public health emergency of international concern.' Bundibugyo virus is one of the three viruses that cause Ebola disease. Access to accurate and science-based information is hence important to protect and save lives. Travelers and communities should seek information from trusted official sources and avoid sharing unverified information. Currently, there are no approved vaccines or specific treatments for this strain of Ebola.

Avoid contact with the bodies of people who have died from Ebola disease and refrain from participating in unsafe burial practices. While the risk remains low, public health authorities are maintaining preparedness measures as a precaution. Misinformation also fuels fear, stigma and discrimination, which too undermines public health response. Hantaviruses are primarily rodent-borne viruses, and people are usually infected through contact with infected rodents or their urine, droppings or saliva.

Across the Region, countries are strengthening surveillance at points of entry such as airports, seaports and land crossings. Hantaviruses have in the past been documented in parts of Asia, reinforcing the need for continued vigilance and preparation for zoonotic diseases. Monitor your health and seek medical advice promptly if symptoms develop.