DR Congo: Ebola is putting millions of children at risk

Countries: Democratic Republic of the Congo, South Sudan, Uganda Source: War Child UK On 17 May, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared an Ebola epidemic in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Since then, the outbreak has continued to spread rapidly, putting communities already facing conflict and displacement under even greater pressure. As of 21 July, there have been 2344 confirmed cases in the DRC and 930 people have died. Health experts warn that the true scale of the outbreak could be much larger than current figures suggest. Neighbouring countries including Uganda and South Sudan also remain at high risk with concerns about cross border transmission. War Child is working to ensure that children’s needs remain at the heart of the Ebola response. Across the DRC, Uganda and South Sudan, we are working with government and humanitarian partners at national and local levels to ensure the response is joined up, and children’s needs are not overlooked. We are supporting communities to access vital and accurate information about Ebola, while coordinating mental health support in the areas where we work. Children make up fewer Ebola cases than adults, but they face a much higher risk of dying if they become infected. An estimated 2. 95 million children and young people aged 18 and under are at risk across 31 affected areas in eastern DRC, representing more than half of the population living in those areas. For many children, living through an outbreak can leave emotional scars. Children experience fear, grief, anxiety and loneliness, especially if they are separated from loved ones or lose someone they care about. That’s why mental health support isn’t an extra, it’s an essential part of helping children recover. Protecting children means addressing these wider risks as well as preventing infection. This outbreak is happening alongside a wider crisis in the DRC, where around 15 million people (almost one in every seven people) are in need of humanitarian support. Our approach builds on previous experience responding to Ebola outbreaks in Uganda in 2022 and 2023. In the districts of Mubende and Kyegegwa, we supported children and families through mental health and psychosocial support, including psychological first aid to help those affected cope with fear and uncertainty. Working alongside local partners, we raised awareness of Ebola by helping communities recognise the signs and symptoms of the virus, understand how to prevent its spread and know where to seek support. In schools, we provided handwashing facilities, soap and hand sanitiser, alongside child-friendly learning materials, helping children and teachers stay safe while keeping education going. These experiences continue to shape our work today, helping us protect children’s mental health, keep them safe and support communities to lead the response. As the outbreak continues, children need more than medical care. They need protection, emotional support and communities equipped to help them recover from the lasting impact of this crisis.

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