MONUSCO has stepped in to support the Democratic Republic of Congo’s emergency response after the government declared its 17th Ebola outbreak on 16 May, mobilising aircraft, logistics and community‑protection teams as cases continue to rise in Ituri province.
The UN mission says it airlifted nearly 20 tonnes of medical supplies to Bunia in four days, including protective equipment, laboratory materials, medicines and tents, while also transporting vehicles to strengthen operations on the ground.
The latest outbreak has triggered renewed concern in a country with a long and deadly history of Ebola epidemics, including the 2018–2020 crisis in North Kivu and Ituri that killed more than 2,200 people and became the second‑largest Ebola outbreak ever recorded.
The DRC has experienced more Ebola outbreaks than any other nation since the virus was first identified there in 1976, with many linked to fragile health systems, insecurity and high population mobility.
According to official data, Ituri has recorded 457 suspected cases and 33 recent deaths, including four confirmed infections, bringing the total number of deaths since the outbreak began to 131.
Health authorities say there is currently no specific treatment or vaccine for the new strain, heightening the urgency of preventive measures.
Beyond logistics, MONUSCO peacekeepers have launched community‑awareness campaigns in Tchabi and Fataki, targeting residents and displaced people with information on hygiene, symptom recognition and risks linked to bushmeat consumption.
Using loudspeakers, teams have urged communities to avoid physical contact, practise regular handwashing and report suspected cases immediately.
The mission says its support aims to reinforce national efforts to contain the outbreak and protect vulnerable populations, in line with its civilian‑protection mandate.
Authorities continue to warn that strict adherence to preventive measures remains the most effective defence as investigations and medical research continue.
JN/APA