UNICEF Updates On Ebola Response In DRC And Uganda As Emergency Efforts Scale Up

As of 24-25 May 2026, health authorities have reported more than 900 suspected cases and 220 suspected deaths in DRC, alongside seven confirmed cases in Uganda. Figures are current as of 24-25 May 2026 and subject to change.

UNICEF is continuing to scale up emergency efforts to protect children and families affected by the Ebola outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Uganda.

The outbreaks have spread to large population centres and across international borders, raising concerns about further transmission in areas affected by conflict, displacement and weak health systems.

UNICEF has activated its highest level emergency response and continues to work alongside governments, WHO, Africa CDC and partners to help contain the outbreak and support affected communities.

Emergency response teams are supporting infection prevention and control, safe water and sanitation, community engagement, psychosocial support and efforts to maintain essential services for children and families.

UNICEF has mobilised critical emergency supplies including disinfectants, soap, personal protective equipment, water purification tablets and safe water supplies for affected communities and health facilities.

The organisation is also supporting community-based surveillance and working with local leaders, health workers, youth networks and Ebola survivors to promote safe health practices and counter misinformation.

UNICEF continues to emphasise that children face risks not only from the virus itself, but also from the wider impacts of the outbreak, including trauma, stigma, family separation, interrupted learning and reduced access to healthcare and nutrition services.

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Maintaining routine healthcare and other essential services remains critical during the outbreak response to help prevent additional loss of life.

UNICEF is calling for sustained international support and flexible emergency funding to help protect children and families and strengthen the wider humanitarian response.

In New Zealand, UNICEF Aotearoa is running its Ebola Outbreak Emergency Campaign. Visit www.unicef.org.nz to find out more or donate.

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