As Ebola Cases Hit 1,000, Almost 3 Million Children And Adolescents Face Rising Risks In Eastern DR Congo – UNICEF
UNICEF warned on June 23, 2026, that 2.95 million children and adolescents in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo are at risk from an Ebola outbreak and the collapse of essential services. With global confirmed cases reaching 1,000, children in the region are nearly twice as likely to die from the virus as adults, according to the agency.
Children and adolescents account for about 15 per cent of confirmed cases but over 25 per cent of confirmed deaths in eastern DRC as of June 19. UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell stated that teams in Ituri have encountered children who lost one or both parents to the disease.
Why are children in eastern DRC more vulnerable to Ebola?
Pre-existing health crises in Ituri Province heighten the danger. According to UNICEF, more than half of children under five in the area are chronically malnourished. Additionally, more than one in five children have never received a first dose of the diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis vaccine.
These conditions complicate medical responses. Malnutrition increases vulnerability to the virus, and early Ebola symptoms often mimic malaria, which UNICEF reports can delay detection. Russell noted that children are especially vulnerable because they cannot distance themselves from sick parents or siblings.
What is the current impact in the DRC and Uganda?
The epicenter of the outbreak is Ituri Province, specifically the Bunia, Rwampara, and Mongbwalu health zones. Cases have also been reported in South Kivu and North Kivu. In Ituri, 135 children orphaned by the outbreak are currently receiving psychosocial care and alternative care arrangements.
The virus has crossed borders into Uganda. The agency confirmed 20 Ebola cases and two deaths among individuals who traveled from the DRC for treatment. One child in Uganda has tested positive, while 19 others remain under quarantine monitoring.
How is UNICEF responding to the health crisis?
UNICEF is working with the Africa CDC, WHO, and local governments to implement contact tracing, infection control, and safe burials. To protect infants separated from caregivers during treatment, the agency recently opened one nursery, with two more expected to open soon.
The agency is seeking US$70.7 million for a six-month response. Currently, US$20 million of that requirement remains unfunded. UNICEF is also calling for safe, sustained humanitarian access to affected communities to combat rumors and online misinformation.
What may happen next?
If the US$20 million funding gap is not closed, the delivery of essential services like nutrition and immunization could be further hindered. Restricted access due to insecurity may also leave current case estimates uncertain.
A possible next step involves the expansion of specialized nurseries to prevent further separation of infants from caregivers. However, without sustained humanitarian access, the risk of sexual violence against women and girls may increase, as often happens during infectious disease outbreaks in conflict zones.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many children are currently at risk in the DRC?
An estimated 2.95 million children and adolescents, representing 54 per cent of the population in 31 affected health zones, are at risk.
Which areas are the epicenter of the outbreak?
The epicenter is Ituri Province, particularly the health zones of Mongbwalu, Rwampara, and Bunia.
What is the status of the Ebola outbreak in Uganda?
Uganda has confirmed 20 cases and two deaths among people traveling from the DRC. One child is positive and 19 are under quarantine.
How should international agencies balance immediate outbreak response with the need to restore long-term vaccination programs in conflict zones?