Congo schools reopen amid Ebola outbreak

On September 1, 2026, schools across the Democratic Republic of the Congo reopened for the new academic year despite concerns from parents and teachers about the ongoing Ebola outbreak, which is centered in Democratic Republic of the Congo — Ituri Province. The teachers' union in Ituri had called for a delay, but the government proceeded. Low attendance was reported in some government-run schools, with parents like Aimerance Vahweka keeping children home due to perceived insufficient prevention measures. Education officials are equipping schools with infrared thermometers, hand sanitizers, and hand-washing basins, and are raising awareness about hygiene. However, experts note challenges such as lack of clean water and funding shortfalls. The outbreak, caused by the Bundibugyo ebolavirus, has killed 2,950 people among 6,100 confirmed cases since mid-May, with children under four having a 60% case-fatality rate. The World Health Organization warns the outbreak could surpass the 2014-2016 West Africa epidemic. Health workers have staged strikes over delayed payments, and containment is hampered by lack of approved vaccine or treatment, though authorities have begun distributing the RVSV-ZEBOV vaccine vaccine. Conflict and attacks on health workers have worsened the situation.