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Health Alert: Ebola
A new outbreak of Ebola virus disease has been confirmed in the Democratic Republic of Congo. As of 7 September 2025, 28 suspected cases have been reported, with 16 resulting in death, reflecting a high fatality rate of over 50%.
First identified in 1976 near the Ebola River in northern DRC, Ebola is a rare but severe virus often considered one of the deadliest known to humans. Outbreaks have occurred periodically, with the largest and most devastating between 2014 and 2016 in West Africa, which resulted in over 28,600 reported cases.
Symptoms of Ebola
Initial symptoms include fever, fatigue, weakness, muscle pain, headache and sore throat. These are typically followed by vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain with rash, and symptoms of impaired kidney and liver functions. Some patients may develop internal and external bleeding.
Protect yourself from Ebola
The Ebola vaccination is recommended for adults at high risk of exposure to the virus. Avoid contact with the blood, body fluids and personal items of infected people, including those who have died, and avoid eating wild animals or bushmeat. Patients suspected to have EVD should be isolated and treated by trained healthcare workers employing strict infection prevention and control measures. Wear protective equipment if you must care for someone who is sick or have to handle contaminated objects. After visiting an area with an outbreak, monitor your health for 21 days and seek medical care immediately if you develop any symptoms.
What to do if you think you have Ebola
If you develop symptoms after living in or travelling to an Ebola-risk area, seek medical care immediately.
- Don’t panic – other illnesses can cause similar symptoms
- Contact the hospital in advance to allow them to prepare for your arrival
- Follow all instructions the hospital staff gives you
- Begin supportive care
Short-term outlook of Ebola
As of September 2025, the outlook for Ebola remains concerning, with active outbreaks re-emerging in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Uganda. Vaccinations are available for Ebola virus disease (Zaire ebolavirus); however, the other strains currently lack approved vaccines.
Current treatment emphasises the combination of approved monoclonal antibody therapies (these are antibodies designed to target and bind to the Ebola virus’s glycoprotein) alongside supportive care. The WHO is currently advocating for affected countries to receive broader access to the two existing monoclonal antibody therapies that have proven effective against the Zaire strain of Ebola – one of six strains of the virus and the most common cause of outbreaks and deaths.
Long-term outlook of Ebola
Researchers are exploring new potential treatments and vaccinations, including oral antiviral drugs, which could offer a more accessible way to treat Ebola in the future. Effective Ebola outbreak control requires a combination of measures – including clinical care, infection prevention and control (IPC) with proper water and hygiene practices, surveillance and contact tracing, reliable laboratory testing and safe burials. These measures are often unavailable in areas most affected by the disease. International coordination is essential to reduce Ebola’s threat and eventually make it a more manageable disease.
Assistance you can rely on
Assist360 is committed to keeping you and your teams safe during health emergencies, including Ebola outbreaks. We provide expert medical and travel assistance, ensuring your employees receive top-tier Duty of Care while travelling in affected regions. Stay prepared and protected – contact Assist360 today.
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