Outside a facility treating Ebola in the northeastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Neema Nyaloka, an Ebola survivor, is caring for children separated from their sick parents. UNICEF is managing 12 child-care centers near Ebola treatment facilities, catering to children awaiting their parents’ recovery or left orphaned. According to Lucia Elmi, director of global emergency programs at UNICEF, roughly 1,900 children have been separated from their caregivers due to Ebola.
The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo has spread across seven provinces, surpassing the previous 2018-2020 outbreak to become the largest and deadliest in the country’s history. As of October 15, there have been over 9,200 confirmed cases and more than 4,400 deaths, with children accounting for over a quarter of the fatalities. Despite most cases occurring in adults, children have a higher fatality rate, with 60% compared to 40% in adults, as estimated by the World Health Organization.
Children are disproportionately affected by Ebola, facing challenges compounded by existing issues like malnutrition and displacement from armed conflicts. Save the Children is assisting schools and communities by providing supplies and training to identify symptoms among students. However, attendance has dropped due to fears of transmission at schools and hospitals.
In addition to Ebola, cholera cases are on the rise in western Congo, with over 51,000 suspected cases reported since the start of 2026. When children contract Ebola, they require isolation, adding emotional stress to their already vulnerable state. The current outbreak, caused by the Bundibugyo strain, lacks an approved treatment or vaccine, making it difficult to control.
The impact of the outbreak extends beyond Congo’s borders, with cases reported in neighboring countries like Uganda and Kenya. USAID’s absence has hindered early detection and response efforts, contributing to the outbreak’s escalation. As health workers strive to contain the crisis, building trust and enhancing public awareness are crucial in combating the spread of Ebola.
