Humanitarian Coalition sounds the alarm as Ebola rapidly spreads in DRC and Uganda

---

Humanitarian Coalition members Oxfam-Québec and World Vision Canada are scaling up their efforts thanks to the Canadian Humanitarian Assistance Fund

The Humanitarian Coalition is deeply concerned about the rapid spread of a deadly strain of the Ebola virus that is outpacing containment efforts in a region already facing one of the world's most severe humanitarian crises.  

Nearly 1,000 suspected cases of Ebola, including 220 suspected deaths, have been reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) as the outbreak spreads across provinces. In neighboring countries, including Uganda – where seven cases and one death have been confirmed – the risks remain especially high.

Members of the Humanitarian Coalition, many with extensive experience responding to Ebola outbreaks, are urgently mobilizing teams in high transmission areas and strengthening infection prevention and control measures. Oxfam-Québec and World Vision Canada are providing clean water and sanitation, essential non-food items and health services in the DRC thanks to a uniquely Canadian funding mechanism. The Canadian Humanitarian Assistance Fund, managed by the Humanitarian Coalition, helps provide life-saving aid quickly to families and communities impacted by sudden emergencies.

The alarming spread of the Ebola virus, the Bundibugyo strain, comes amid an already fragile humanitarian situation marked by massive population displacement, persistent insecurity and limited access to basic healthcare. The DRC is facing one of the world's worst humanitarian crises, with an astonishing 15 million people – almost one in every seven people – in need of humanitarian assistance.

The Humanitarian Coalition urges a coordinated global response to contain the virus, support Ebola-affected families, and provide timely assistance to local frontline responders and health workers.