In response to the severe Ebola outbreak affecting the Democratic Republic of the Congo—with Ituri as its epicenter—INTERSOS is on the front lines with an integrated health and WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) response to protect local communities and enable healthcare workers to operate safely.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo is facing its 17th outbreak of the Ebola virus disease, caused by the Bundibugyo strain, which is particularly concerning due to its high potential for spread. Ituri, the current epicenter of the outbreak, is recording a high number of alerts and remains at the core of INTERSOS’s operations, while the provinces of North Kivu, Tshopo, and Haut-Uélé remain exposed. There are currently 2,267 confirmed cases and 893 deaths, with an overall case fatality rate of 39.4%. Ituri stands as the epicenter of the emergency, accounting for 89.6% of cases (2,124) and 83.5% of deaths (828). These figures highlight the urgent need to strengthen surveillance and response measures, an effort in which INTERSOS is directly engaged through the distribution of infection prevention and control kits, the rehabilitation of water points, and the setup of triage areas.
Since May 25, 2026, INTERSOS has been implementing an integrated water supply and hygiene project project in the Nyankunde and Rwampara health zones to safeguard local communities and medical staff. Specifically, in the Rwampara health zone, located 7 kilometers from the city of Bunia, five local healthcare facilities have received essential medical supplies, including infrared thermometers for temperature screening, personal protective equipment (masks, gloves, protective gowns), and sterile delivery kits. These supplies allow medical teams to work under safer conditions.
“Ever since the Ebola outbreak started, we were running a constant risk of infection; we were struggling without handwashing stations or protective equipment against the virus“, shares Jean Yombiabo, head of triage in the Birinyama health area. “Today, we have finally received all the necessary equipment. It will truly be a huge help to us.“
INTERSOS’s response to the Ebola outbreak goes beyond providing equipment. In these two health zones, field assessments were conducted to identify water points in need of rehabilitation, particularly within internally displaced persons sites where the risk of transmission is high.