Oxford Begins Trials For First Vaccine Targeting Rare Bundibugyo Ebola Virus

Last Updated:May 23, 2026, 05:51 IST

University of Oxford scientists begin trials of a viral vector vaccine targeting the rare Bundibugyo Ebola strain, aiming to close a major gap in global outbreak preparedness.

Scientists at the University of Oxford are developing what could become the world’s first vaccine targeting the rare Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus, a variant responsible for severe outbreaks but for which no approved vaccine currently exists.

Researchers have begun early-stage clinical trials to test the safety and immune response of the vaccine candidate, aimed at protecting against Bundibugyo ebolavirus — one of several species that cause Ebola virus disease.

The project is being led by Oxford’s Pandemic Sciences Institute and the Oxford Vaccine Group, institutions that previously played key roles in developing the Oxford-AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine.

While vaccines already exist for the more common Zaire strain of Ebola, experts say protection against Bundibugyo remains a major gap in global outbreak preparedness.

The Bundibugyo strain was first identified in Uganda in 2007 and has caused outbreaks with fatality rates ranging from around 25% to over 40%, according to previous health data.

Scientists warn that because different Ebola strains do not always respond similarly to existing vaccines, separate protection strategies may be required.

Researchers involved in the project said the goal is to create broader defences against multiple Ebola variants before future outbreaks occur.

The new vaccine candidate uses viral vector technology similar to platforms previously used in other infectious disease vaccines.

Oxford scientists said early testing will focus on evaluating safety and determining whether the vaccine generates a strong immune response in participants.

Ebola is a severe and often fatal disease transmitted through direct contact with infected bodily fluids. Symptoms can include fever, weakness, vomiting, internal bleeding and organ failure.

Outbreaks have historically occurred in parts of Central and East Africa, where health systems can face challenges containing transmission.

Experts say developing vaccines before outbreaks begin is critical because Ebola epidemics often spread rapidly and have high mortality rates.

The Oxford-led effort is part of broader international attempts to strengthen preparedness against emerging infectious diseases beyond Covid-19.

If successful, the vaccine could become the first targeted protection against the Bundibugyo Ebola strain and help close a major gap in global health security.

News world Oxford Begins Trials For First Vaccine Targeting Rare Bundibugyo Ebola Virus

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