Oluwatobi Adu 
ABUJA, Nigeria – Africa’s leading public health agency has called for stronger international surveillance and cross-border cooperation after a humanitarian health worker who responded to an Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo tested positive for the virus in France.
The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention said the confirmed infection involved the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus and underscored the need for sustained vigilance as health authorities continue response efforts in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
According to the agency, the health worker served in Ituri Province between May 19 and June 19 before leaving the DRC after completing all travel and health requirements.
Symptoms reportedly developed only after arrival in France, where authorities quickly identified the case and activated emergency response measures.
“This case illustrates the importance of strong surveillance,” Africa CDC Director-General Jean Kaseya said.
“The health worker left the Democratic Republic of the Congo without symptoms, and the Government of the DRC has put in place strengthened surveillance, entry and exit screening, and border health measures as part of the Ebola response.”
He added that symptoms were identified after arrival in France and that diagnosis was made rapidly through international alert systems and coordinated public health action.
Kaseya praised frontline health workers operating in outbreak zones, noting that they continue to face the highest risks during Ebola emergencies.
He urged international partners to strengthen support for response teams, saying global solidarity remains essential to ending the outbreak.
The agency stressed that early detection, rapid information sharing and strong border health systems remain critical tools in preventing cross-border transmission.
About the Author
Hussaini Ibrahim 
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
