Ebola Returns to the DRC's Kasai Province

The World Health Organization (WHO today announced that in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the first signs of the Ebola virus were detected in a maternity ward in Bulape, located in the Kasai Province.

A pregnant woman arrived showing unusual symptoms of this severe disease. The midwife on duty at the time assisted the woman through labour.

While handling the needle used on the patient, she accidentally pricked herself. A few days later, the midwife passed away, along with the mother and newborn.

Antho, the head of the maternity ward, was also present, commented in a WHO press release on November 14, 2025, "Not only was I wearing gloves, but each time I touched the patient, I went out and washed my hands with soap and water."

"It was hard to lose Juliette (midwife). We'd worked together for a long time, and even in the toughest moments, she supported the team. Her loss has left a big void."

The ongoing Ebola response in the DRC has focused on strengthening infection prevention along with other key outbreak control measures. This area has previously reported several Ebola outbreaks.

In public health emergencies, the WHO says infection prevention and control are pivotal in saving lives.

Currently, the DRC has access to Ebola vaccines and antibody treatments.