Ebola Crisis: 3 Million Children Face Severe Risks in Eastern DRC, UNICEF Warns

Top Summary

• What happened: Global confirmed Ebola cases reached 1,000, prompting a UNICEF warning that 2.95 million children and adolescents in eastern DR Congo are at severe risk from the virus and breakdown of essential services.
• Why it matters: Children account for over 25 per cent of confirmed deaths and are nearly twice as likely to die from Ebola as adults, exacerbating existing vulnerabilities from conflict and malnutrition.
• What changes: Families face increased infection risks, orphanhood, stigma, and loss of vital services. New nurseries with UNICEF support are opening to provide safe care for infants separated from their parents.
• Who is affected: Primarily 2.95 million children and adolescents (aged 18 and under) in 31 affected health zones in eastern DRC, particularly Ituri Province. Uganda has also reported cases among travelers from the DRC.

Ebola Threat Escalates for Millions of Children

As confirmed global Ebola cases reached 1,000, UNICEF issued a stark warning on June 22, 2026. An estimated 2.95 million children and adolescents aged 18 and under in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) face severe risks.

These young individuals represent 54 per cent of the population across 31 affected health zones. The threat stems both from the Ebola virus itself and the profound breakdown of essential services in the region.

"Our teams in Ituri have met children who have lost their mothers, and in some cases both parents, to Ebola," stated UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell. "Children are trying to make sense of the threat while surrounded by rumors and online misinformation."

Disproportionate Impact on Younger Populations

Children and adolescents currently account for approximately 15 per cent of confirmed Ebola cases. Alarmingly, they represent over 25 per cent of confirmed deaths in eastern DRC as of June 19.

Younger populations are particularly vulnerable; those with confirmed Ebola are almost twice as likely to die as adults. This highlights the severe and disproportionate impact of the outbreak.

Despite recent improvements in testing capacity, surveillance and contact tracing efforts remain hindered. Insecurity and restricted access contribute to these constraints, introducing a degree of uncertainty to current estimates.

Epicentre in Ituri, Expanding Risks

Ituri Province is the current epicentre of the outbreak, specifically the Mongbwalu, Rwampara, and Bunia health zones. Cases have also been reported in North Kivu and South Kivu.

In Ituri, 135 children orphaned by the outbreak are receiving crucial support. This includes psychosocial care, referral to essential social services, and alternative care arrangements.

A significant development is the recent opening of the first nursery with UNICEF support. This safe space provides care and protection for infants separated from parents undergoing Ebola treatment. Two more nurseries are expected to open soon.

Pre-existing Vulnerabilities Worsen Crisis

Children in Ituri were already highly vulnerable prior to the Ebola outbreak. More than half of children under five are chronically malnourished, further weakening their resistance.

Immunization rates are also critically low, with more than one in five children never having received a first dose of the diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis vaccine. These conditions make Ebola particularly dangerous.

Early Ebola symptoms often mimic other common illnesses like malaria, which can significantly delay detection. Malnutrition further heightens vulnerability to the virus.

Beyond Infection: Stigma and Service Loss

Beyond the direct threat of infection and the loss of parents or caregivers, children face significant challenges. These include social stigma and severe psychosocial distress.

Infectious disease outbreaks also regrettably increase the risk of violence, particularly sexual violence against women and girls. Children may also lose access to vital services they depend on.

Such services include healthcare, nutrition, immunisation, education, water and sanitation, and child protection. In eastern DRC, these risks are compounded by years of ongoing conflict and mass displacement, which have long exposed children to violence and exploitation.

Uganda Also Affected

The impact of the outbreak has also extended into neighboring Uganda. There, 20 Ebola cases and two deaths have been confirmed among individuals who traveled from the DRC seeking testing and treatment.

Children in Uganda have also been affected, with one child testing positive for Ebola. Additionally, 19 children are currently under quarantine monitoring.

What to Watch Next

Focus will remain on containing the outbreak in Ituri and expanding protection for vulnerable children in eastern DRC. The effectiveness of newly established nurseries and sustained psychosocial support initiatives will be key measures of progress. Continued surveillance and community engagement will be crucial for managing risks within the DRC and preventing further cross-border spread, particularly to Uganda.