Bunia, Democratic Republic of the Congo

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a serious warning regarding the ongoing outbreak of the Ebola virus in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), suggesting that it could be among the worst the world has ever faced.

In the previous largest outbreak, over 11,000 individuals lost their lives in West Africa between 2014 and 2016. The second-most severe outbreak occurred from 2018 to 2020, resulting in 2,287 deaths in eastern DRC.

Health authorities are especially concerned this time, as the region is now dealing with the uncommon Bundibugyo strain, which lacks approved treatments or vaccines. Additionally, the outbreak went undetected for weeks prior to the official declaration on May 15, highlighting weaknesses in disease surveillance exacerbated by cuts to global health funding over the past year.

The virus is spreading amidst ongoing conflict in eastern DRC, where there is significant distrust toward authorities, complicating efforts to monitor suspected and confirmed cases. The epicenter is located in Ituri province, not far from the Ugandan border.

By July 21, WHO had reported more than 2,500 cases and 1,000 deaths. Uganda, meanwhile, showed 20 cases and two deaths. Authorities mentioned that the last confirmed patient had recovered by July 16.

In contrast, it took over 10 months for case numbers to reach 2,000 during the 2018 outbreak in the DRC.

Health workers, facing risks of infection, insufficient personal protective equipment (PPE), and aggression from communities skeptical of the virus, are at the forefront of combating this outbreak.

Many health workers have also raised concerns about not receiving their salaries. Recently, staff at the Rwampara General Hospital went on strike due to these unpaid wages. This hospital operates a significant Ebola treatment center near Bunia. In May, parts of the center were destroyed by angry locals, who chased medical staff as they attempted to flee.

Over 100 health workers have contracted the virus, with around 35 fatalities reported.

Two health workers shared their experiences with the challenges they face:

Fearing Ebola Infection and Angry Mobs

My name is Paluku Audrey, I’m 29, and I work as a community engagement officer at a local hospital in Rwampara. My job involves going into various communities to inform people about the risks associated with Ebola. It can be quite daunting since many residents don’t believe in the disease, and at times people can be physically aggressive.

I became involved after the outbreak was declared in May. We quickly organized to address the situation. My motivation isn’t financial; it’s primarily about saving lives.

I start my day at 6 a.m., preparing to travel more than 10 kilometers (about 6.2 miles) from my home in Kindia to the health center. Sometimes I can take a bus, but often I have to walk, mostly due to not having enough money for transport since we haven’t been paid since May.

The biggest obstacle is skepticism within the communities. Many still refuse to believe Ebola exists, often citing conspiracy theories or claiming it’s a form of divine punishment.

Every day, my colleagues and I navigate the streets of Bunia, where we find many residents viewing us with distrust. Our mission extends from morning until evening as we share information on hygiene and the importance of seeking medical help when feeling ill.

While some people listen, many dismiss our messages and, at times, have thrown stones at us. Crowds can become quite hostile when upset.

I fear catching Ebola or facing an attack by an angry mob. Once, I narrowly escaped being attacked when a group accused me of exaggerating the disease for personal profit. Thankfully, connections I had helped me out of a tricky situation.

To protect myself from Ebola, I carry sanitizing spray and a mask, sometimes gloves. But for physical threats, I try to empathize with people, though I always have an escape plan in mind.

Coming from a financially strained family, I am their sole provider, which adds pressure. They worry for my safety, and while I see life as a mix of risks and opportunities, I can’t help but wonder how they would cope if I were gone.

A particularly memorable day was when I assisted in transporting the first bodies of individuals suspected to have died from Ebola. The locals were furious and attempted to force us to open the coffins to verify the contents. My colleagues and I stood our ground despite being threatened. It was an intense moment.

It’s disheartening to think we’ve worked for weeks without even being able to buy a basic necessity like water. I believe international donors should pressure the government to ensure we receive our pay.

Despite some resistance, I am seeing positive results from my outreach efforts. Many assure me they will heed my advice and notify others as well. It’s heartening to know that my work is contributing to saving lives, and I have faith that my country will one day recognize my efforts.

The Outbreak Took His Life

My name is Ghislain Maneba, a 35-year-old epidemiologist at the Rwampara treatment center.

I assist in transporting suspected Ebola cases to the treatment facility for testing and help treat those confirmed to be infected.

My family is supportive, although they share my worries. As the main breadwinner, their reliance on me adds to the stress.

Ebola’s severity is unlike that of typified illnesses like malaria; it strikes hard. Some colleagues have become ill, and I often think, “What if that’s me tomorrow?” Deep down, I dread it.

Every morning and night, I am reminded of my commitment to save lives. The increasing case numbers burden me with anxiety about the future.

Yet, like anyone, I get ready each day and take a motorbike taxi to work. Although we have received some PPE, it’s insufficient.

We are disinfected after every contact with cases, suspected or confirmed.

Our primary hurdle remains the absence of salaries and bonuses; that sometimes leaves us struggling even to cover our transport expenses. It’s disheartening that we are working without compensation.

Misconceptions about the epidemic are rampant; many people believe Ebola is a myth, often echoing others’ opinions.

Nonetheless, we remain steadfast and continue our work.

One of my most harrowing memories from this outbreak is attending the funeral of a fellow doctor who succumbed to Ebola. He was brave and full of life, and it pains me to think that the outbreak stole him away. Remembering him inspires me to work even harder.

What many don’t realize is that my role demands significant personal sacrifice, often taking time away from those I love.

Ultimately, I feel I am contributing to a historical fight against Ebola, and that realization fills me with pride.

I hope the world acknowledges this crisis and allocates adequate resources to combat it. Better payment aligned with our responsibilities and timely provision of supplies would significantly improve our situation.