RedHill Biopharma Ltd. (NASDAQ: RDHL) reported that confirmed Bundibugyo ebolavirus cases have reached 3,221 with 1,407 deaths, as the company pursues development of its investigational drug opaganib as a potential treatment for Ebola virus disease (EVD).

According to a company statement dated July 28, 2026, RedHill is in discussions with the Emergency Task Force expert group of the African Medicines Agency, the Ugandan Ministry of Health, Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST), and the Scientific Advisory Committee of the Democratic Republic of Congo regarding potential partnerships and development next steps.

Professor Pauline Byakika-Kibwika, Vice Chancellor of MUST, said in the statement: "The absence of proven therapies for Bundibugyo ebolavirus disease underscores the urgent need to evaluate promising treatment options. Opaganib is a host-directed antiviral with an oral formulation, an established human safety profile, and encouraging preclinical and clinical evidence."

Opaganib is an oral sphingosine kinase-2 inhibitor. RedHill cited preclinical studies funded by the U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases showing opaganib inhibited EVD in human macrophages and demonstrated a synergistic effect when combined with remdesivir (Veklury®, Gilead Sciences). The company also referenced Phase 3 clinical data from a severe COVID-19 study in which opaganib, given alongside remdesivir and corticosteroids, was associated with a 70.2% reduction in mortality compared to placebo.

Currently, the only FDA-approved treatments for EVD are Inmazeb (Regeneron Pharmaceuticals) and Ebanga (Ridgeback Biotherapeutics), both intravenously administered monoclonal antibodies. Opaganib has not been approved by any regulatory authority and remains an investigational drug.

The U.S. Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) previously selected opaganib for joint development and funding as a medical countermeasure for EVD.