Ebola outbreak impacts healthcare workers in Katwa and Butembo

Ebola virus disease is significantly impacting healthcare workers in the Katwa and Butembo health zones. In Katwa, 16 healthcare providers have tested positive for the virus, resulting in three deaths. Medical officials noted that frontline exposure to patients is a primary cause of these infections. Response teams are currently organizing training sessions and providing personal protective equipment (PPE) to mitigate further contamination. In Katwa, 487 confirmed cases have been notified, with 18 new cases reported on September 14, 2026.

In the Butembo health zone, 228 cases and 157 deaths have been recorded, with all 16 health areas affected.

Simultaneously, Ebola response activities have been suspended in the Damas health zone within the Djugu territory of Ituri. Medical staff, including doctors, nurses, and community workers, have halted operations—including patient care, contact tracing, and safe burials—to demand three months of unpaid risk premiums and regular supplies of PPE. This strike follows a previous four-day work stoppage by ambulance and vehicle drivers over similar unpaid wages.