Ebola Response Workers Strike in DR Congo as Outbreak Death Toll Exceeds 1,400

Ebola Response Workers Strike in DR Congo as Outbreak Death Toll Exceeds 1,400
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Healthcare workers at an Ebola treatment centre in Bunia, in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) eastern Ituri province, have gone on strike over unpaid wages and allowances, disrupting parts of the response to a rapidly expanding Ebola outbreak.

The striking workers, including medical staff and support personnel, are demanding payment for two months of unpaid compensation, warning that financial difficulties are affecting morale and placing additional pressure on teams working in the outbreak’s epicentre.

The outbreak, caused by the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, has become one of the fastest-growing Ebola crises recorded in the country. Recent reports indicate that confirmed cases have surpassed 3,200, with deaths rising above 1,400.

Health authorities and aid organisations have warned that the response is being challenged by shortages of resources, insecurity, logistical difficulties and disruptions linked to unpaid health workers. Despite ongoing containment efforts, officials continue to urge stronger support for frontline teams to limit further spread of the virus.