DRC Ebola Outbreaks

How is MSF responding to the 2026 Ebola outbreak?

MSF teams are working around the clock to prepare a large-scale response in DRC, in collaboration with the Congolese health authorities, WHO, and partners.

Our teams are setting up two Ebola treatment centres; one in Goma and one in Mongbwalu. Additionally, we are setting up an isolation ward in Kyeshero hospital in Goma.  

In Kyeshero hospital, which our teams already support with paediatric services, MSF is training hospital medical staff on Ebola case management.

Several tons of equipment and supplies are on their way to DRC, including personal protective equipment (PPE), medical equipment, medicines, generators, solar panels, disinfectants, and hygiene equipment.

We are mobilising medical and logistics staff who are experienced in treating viral haemorrhagic fevers, including dozens of internationally mobile staff, to support our Congolese colleagues.

The rest of our response activities are still being defined. However, a typical Ebola response comprises six main pillars: 

• care and isolation of patients; 
• tracing and follow up of patient contacts; 
• raising community awareness of the disease, such as how to prevent it and where to seek care; 
• conducting safe burials; 
• proactively detecting new cases; and 
• supporting existing health structures. 

Importantly, protecting staff and patients through safeguarding, duty of care, and Ebola prevention measures, while ensuring continued access to essential healthcare services, are among our priorities. Community engagement is also a key aspect of the response.

MSF has also informed the Ugandan Ministry of Health that we are ready to support their response, if needed.

Is the 2026 Ebola outbreak different from previous Ebola disease outbreaks?

DRC has faced 16 outbreaks of Ebola disease since it was first identified in 1976 – this outbreak is the 17th. Nearly all of the previous outbreaks have been of the Ebola (Zaire) virus.

However, the 2026 Ebola outbreak is caused by the Bundibugyo virus. Dealing with this outbreak will be difficult, given there is a short supply of testing kits for diagnosis and there are no approved treatments or vaccines for Bundibugyo virus. It is already suspected that cases are underreported.

People in the areas affected in DRC are also living through extreme levels of conflict and displacement. It may be complicated to identify, follow up, and isolate cases as people are on the move and the health system is under resourced.