Ebola Alert Turns Deadly as Attack Kills Nurse in DR Congo

Ebola Alert Turns Deadly as Attack Kills Nurse in DR Congo

A nurse has been killed and another health worker seriously injured after an attack on an Ebola response team in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo), according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

The incident occurred on Saturday in Bafwasende, Tshopo province, while the team was responding to an Ebola alert. The WHO condemned the attack and called for urgent protection of medical personnel.

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus and the organisation’s Africa regional director, Mohamed Yakub Janabi, urged authorities to safeguard healthcare workers involved in controlling the outbreak.

Authorities had yet to identify the attackers or establish their motives following the incident.

The attack comes as DR Congo battles a severe Ebola outbreak that has strained its healthcare system. Reports published on October 26 put the cumulative toll since May at more than 9,800 reported cases and 4,700 deaths.

Misinformation, fear and distrust have complicated response efforts in some communities, making it harder for health teams to identify infections, trace contacts and deliver treatment.

The WHO has warned that hostility towards medical personnel could disrupt disease-control operations and discourage communities from cooperating with public health authorities.

Previous incidents in the country have included threats against response teams, attacks on healthcare facilities and violence targeting people involved in Ebola prevention activities.

Such insecurity can delay medical supplies, interrupt disease surveillance and prevent healthcare workers from reaching people who need urgent attention.

Ebola is a severe viral disease that can cause fever, weakness, vomiting and diarrhoea. It spreads through direct contact with infected people’s bodily fluids or contaminated materials.

Health authorities emphasise early detection, isolation, infection-prevention measures and appropriate medical care to limit transmission and protect vulnerable communities.

The latest attack underscores the dangers facing Ebola responders in DR Congo, as the WHO continues calling for their safety and stronger community cooperation.

Further details about the investigation and the injured worker’s condition were not immediately available.