Brazzaville – The Republic of Congo has intensified efforts to detect and respond swiftly to a potential Ebola outbreak following the emergence of the virus in Kasai Province, Democratic Republic of the Congo. The neighboring country has seen a slowdown in virus transmission, with no new cases reported for 18 days as of 13 October 2025, highlighting the importance of proactive measures in the region.
Given the shared border of over a thousand kilometers and the frequent movement of people between the two countries, Congo recognizes its high exposure to the virus. Health authorities have prioritized awareness among personnel at entry points, emphasizing early detection, screening, and proper handling of suspected cases. A recent outbreak preparedness training involved over a thousand participants, including port health authorities, to bolster these preventive measures.
Airport and port staff play a critical role in monitoring international travelers and disseminating information about Ebola symptoms, transmission, and preventive steps. Public awareness campaigns and informational materials have been developed and distributed to ensure communities understand and adhere to health measures.
The Republic of Congo, with support from the World Health Organization (WHO), has assessed and updated its National Ebola Preparedness and Response Plan. Disease surveillance and clinical care infrastructure have also been strengthened, including the designation of isolation wards in major hospitals and the deployment of an ambulance at the main airport in Brazzaville.
These efforts reflect a shift from a reactive to a proactive approach, focusing on building a resilient health system capable of responding not only to Ebola but to a broad range of public health threats. WHO continues to support the government in enhancing surveillance at entry points, coordinating multisectoral response mechanisms, training health personnel, and developing comprehensive contingency plans.
