Geneva: The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has issued a warning regarding the escalating spread of the Bundibugyo Ebola virus disease in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), emphasizing the heightened risks it poses to displaced communities in the region. According to African Press Organization, as of June 17, there have been 896 confirmed cases and 232 deaths reported across 31 health zones in the DRC. Uganda has also confirmed 19 cases and two deaths. Although none of these cases involve refugees, the threat of the disease spreading among displaced populations remains significant. More than 2 million forcibly displaced individuals, including over 320,000 refugees, reside in areas at risk in the DRC, where continued conflict exacerbates the spread of the virus. UNHCR has reported an influx of approximately 2,250 people from Mbau, located 20km from Beni, one of the outbreak's epicentres, due to movements of armed groups. These individuals have sought refuge in Oicha, No rth Kivu, a zone already affected by Ebola and hosting over 14,300 displaced persons. The outbreak has intensified fear and misinformation among refugees and internally displaced people, hindering trust in response teams and delaying access to vital care. In affected regions such as Bunia, UNHCR supports government-led response plans by facilitating training for community leaders on Ebola prevention. Trained refugees are also aiding in installing chlorinated handwashing stations in refugee-hosting villages. The interconnected nature of the region, linking Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania, and South Sudan, underscores the broader regional risk. UNHCR is collaborating with governments and partners to enhance surveillance, screening, and sanitation efforts to prevent cross-border transmission. Governments are urged to lead the public health response, with UNHCR advocating against border closures, which may drive people towards unofficial crossings, complicating health screenings. Public health measures should ensure access to asylum for those in need, with appropriate systems in place for screening and isolation. UNHCR, in collaboration with local authorities, is working to strengthen community-led preventive measures, ensuring displaced communities are integrated into national health responses and protected from discrimination. The response must scale up rapidly, focusing on national leadership, without neglecting essential services such as primary health care and education. To support these efforts, UNHCR is seeking $14 million for Ebola preparedness and response from July to November. These funds will enhance health and sanitation systems, support front-line personnel, expand isolation capacity, and ensure displaced individuals are included in the broader public health response.
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