Nurse Killed and Health Worker Injured in Attack on Ebola Response Team in Congo
The World Health Organization condemned the attack in eastern Congo as violence and misinformation continue to complicate efforts to contain the Ebola outbreak.
Photo: AI-generated illustration by Breaking Global News.BAFWASENDE, Democratic Republic of the Congo, October 26, 2026 — A nurse was killed and another health worker was seriously injured in an attack while responding to an Ebola alert in eastern Congo, according to the World Health Organization.
The attack took place on Saturday, October 24, in Bafwasende, in Tshopo province, according to reporting by The Associated Press. The identities of the attackers and their motive had not been publicly confirmed in the reports available at publication time.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus condemned the violence and stressed that healthcare workers must be able to protect communities safely. The organization's Africa regional director, Mohamed Yakub Janabi, also warned that misinformation and fear must not fuel attacks.
The incident adds to security concerns surrounding the response to the Bundibugyo virus disease outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Violence, mistrust and resistance to public-health measures have made it more difficult for response teams to reach affected communities.
A major public-health challenge
In its October 23 situation update, the WHO reported 9,704 confirmed cases and 4,687 deaths from the outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo as of October 20. The figures reflect the reported situation at that date and may change as surveillance continues.
The outbreak has spread across multiple provinces, with Ituri remaining the most affected. Health officials have emphasized the importance of early detection, access to appropriate care, contact tracing and cooperation with local communities.
The WHO has also reported imported cases in neighboring countries, prompting additional surveillance and preparedness measures. It advises against restrictions on travel or trade with affected countries.
Protecting frontline workers
Health workers and other responders play a critical role in identifying cases, supporting patients and preventing further transmission. Attacks against them can disrupt essential services and make it harder for communities to access care.
Public-health authorities have repeatedly emphasized that accurate information and community trust are important to controlling the outbreak.
The circumstances of the latest attack remain under investigation, and further details may emerge as authorities respond.
Sources: Associated Press reporting published October 26, 2026, and the World Health Organization's October 23 Ebola situation update.