Officials warn ‘unprecedented’ Ebola outbreak is ‘very dire’: ‘All countries should know that they are not safe’ | 2 Nov 2026 | A disease that health officials have described as the fastest-spreading on record in Africa shows no signs of slowing down, and may soon afflict those outside the continent. The unprecedented spread of Ebola has resulted in thousands of cases, with Nigeria reporting its first case in more than a decade last month, and additional reports in Kenya and other African countries. While the majority of cases are currently affecting those in Africa, health experts are warning that the situation could change and countries should start increasing preparedness now. Cases have been linked to the Bundibugyo variant, a less common strain that has a high death rate and no approved treatment or vaccine.