WHO Technical Advisory Group on therapeutics prioritization for Bundibugyo virus disease: meeting report, 20 and 26 May 2026

Overview

This meeting report summarizes discussions of the WHO Research and Development (R&D) Blueprint Technical Advisory Group on Therapeutics Prioritization regarding candidate therapeutics for Bundibugyo virus disease (BVD) during the ongoing Public Health Emergency of International Concern.

The meetings reviewed available evidence on antivirals and monoclonal antibodies intended for treatment and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) against Bundibugyo virus (BDBV), with particular attention to products currently in development. Evidence from preclinical studies, clinical safety data, pharmacokinetic considerations and experience from Ebola virus disease and other filovirus outbreaks informed the assessment process.

The report evaluates remdesivir, obeldesivir, MBP-134, maftivimab and Inmazeb as potential candidates for clinical research. Remdesivir and obeldesivir demonstrated antiviral activity and supportive preclinical evidence, while MBP-134 and maftivimab showed broad neutralizing activity and promising efficacy in animal models.

The Technical Advisory Group prioritized MBP-134, maftivimab and remdesivir for inclusion in clinical trials for BVD, including investigation of combination therapy involving remdesivir and monoclonal antibodies. For post-exposure prophylaxis, the oral antiviral obeldesivir was prioritized for clinical evaluation.