A rapidly growing Ebola outbreak is affecting communities in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and has spread into neighboring Uganda. More than 1,000 cases have been reported, raising concerns about wider regional transmission and placing additional pressure on already fragile health systems. 

Children are among the most vulnerable, facing the direct risk of infection as well as disruptions to healthcare, education and family support systems. 

Save the Children is responding alongside local partners, governments and health authorities to help contain the outbreak, support affected families and protect children from its devastating impacts.

This outbreak is caused by the rare Bundibugyo strain of Ebola virus, which presents unique challenges for health workers and communities. Unlike some previous Ebola outbreaks, there is currently no approved vaccine available for this strain, making prevention, surveillance and early treatment even more critical. 

The outbreak is also unfolding in areas affected by conflict, population displacement and limited access to healthcare. These conditions can make it harder to identify cases, trace contacts and reach families with lifesaving support, increasing the risk of further spread.

The first cases in the current outbreak are believed to have occurred in late April 2026 in Ituri Province. However, confirmation was delayed because samples had to be transported over 1,800 kilometers for testing.

During that time, the virus spread through: 

• Close contact with infected individuals
• Caregiving and health settings
• Burial practices 

Delayed detection allowed transmission to expand in both communities and health facilities.

Common symptoms of Ebola include: 

• Fever
• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Weakness and muscle pain Internal and external bleeding 

Those most at risk include: 

• Health workers
• Family caregivers
• Children who depend on infected adults 

Women and girls are often disproportionately affected because they are more likely to care for sick relatives.

In places like DRC, Ebola doesn’t just threaten health—it disrupts every part of a child’s life. 

• Children can lose parents or caregivers
• Schools may close or become unsafe
• Stigma and fear can lead to isolation In past outbreaks, tens of thousands of children lost a parent or caregiver, leaving long-term impacts on their safety and well-being

In past outbreaks, tens of thousands of children lost a parent or caregiver, leaving long-term impacts on their safety and well-being.

The outbreak is occurring in parts of eastern DRC that have been affected by years of conflict and large-scale displacement. Millions of people have been forced from their homes, and many communities face limited access to healthcare, clean water and other essential services. 

Frequent movement between communities, insecurity and challenges reaching remote areas can make it more difficult to identify cases and stop transmission. These conditions also increase the burden on families already coping with multiple crises.

Save the Children is working across DRC and Uganda to help contain the outbreak and support children and families affected by the crisis. 

Our response includes supporting health facilities with triage and isolation areas, strengthening disease surveillance and contact tracing, providing infection prevention supplies, and helping communities access trusted health information. We are also helping keep children safe through child protection services, mental health support, family reunification efforts and education programs that help children continue learning during the emergency. 

Save the Children's World Health Organization-accredited Emergency Health Unit has been deployed to support frontline response efforts and strengthen lifesaving healthcare services.

Responding to this outbreak is especially difficult because it is occurring in areas affected by conflict, displacement and weak health systems. Humanitarian organizations face challenges reaching some communities, while shortages of supplies and limited resources can slow response efforts. 

The absence of an approved vaccine for the Bundibugyo strain adds another layer of complexity. Misinformation, fear and community mistrust can also make it harder to identify cases and encourage people to seek care early. Continued support is essential to help stop the spread of Ebola and protect children and families from further harm.

Donations to the Ebola Crisis Relief Fund can help Save the Children provide lifesaving support to children and families affected by the Ebola outbreak. 

Support can help fund emergency healthcare, infection prevention supplies, clean water and sanitation services, child protection programs, mental health support, education assistance and nutrition services. Donations also help families access critical information that can prevent the spread of disease and keep children safe during the crisis.

 Every contribution helps strengthen the response and reach more children with the support they need.