The World Health Organization (WHO) has released $500,000 from its Contingency Fund for Emergencies to support the response to the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
WHO Director-General Tedros Ghebreyesus confirmed the funding during a Friday briefing.
The outbreak in Kasai Province has claimed 16 lives from 28 probable cases, including four health workers. WHO staff are on the ground assisting national health officials, with more experts en route.
“We’re joining rapid response teams to trace contacts, collect samples, and provide expertise in treatment, surveillance, and infection control,” Ghebreyesus said.
WHO has delivered medical supplies, protective gear, laboratory equipment, and a mobile lab to Kasai. It has also prepositioned 2,000 doses of the Ervebo Ebola vaccine in Kinshasa, now used to protect health workers and close contacts.
Ghebreyesus urged donors to contribute further, noting that this is the 16th Ebola outbreak in the DRC. The current crisis affects Bulape and Mweka health zones, where symptoms include fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and hemorrhage.
Laboratory tests confirmed Ebola Zaire as the cause on September 3.
The DRC has faced more Ebola outbreaks than any other country since 1976. The last outbreak in 2022 ended in three months, but cholera, hunger, and mass displacement may complicate current response efforts.
Nigeria has been placed on alert due to its proximity and past Ebola experience, though no cases have been reported there.
