NAIROBI, Kenya — The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) expressed profound sadness over the deaths of three volunteers from the Democratic Republic of the Congo Red Cross (DRC RC) in Ituri Province.
The volunteers, Alikana Udumusi Augustin, Sezabo Katanabo, and Ajiko Chandiru Viviane, are believed to have contracted the Ebola virus while managing dead bodies as part of a humanitarian mission unrelated to the Ebola outbreak on March 27, 2026.
The community was unaware of the outbreak at the time, and it was not yet identified. They are among the first known victims of the subsequent Ebola Virus Disease outbreak in the region.
The volunteers passed away between May 5 and May 16, 2026.
The IFRC extended heartfelt condolences to the families, loved ones, fellow volunteers, and colleagues of the deceased.
The organization stands in solidarity with the DRC Red Cross during this difficult time.
The Ebola outbreak in the DRC has been declared a public health emergency of international concern by the World Health Organization (WHO), highlighting the challenges faced by the country’s strained infrastructure and public health systems.
The Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, for which there is no approved vaccine or treatment, adds complexity to the response efforts.
The IFRC, together with the DRC Red Cross and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), remains committed to supporting affected communities and strengthening efforts to respond to the outbreak.
The loss of the three volunteers underscores the dangers faced by those working on the frontlines of the crisis and the importance of ensuring their safety and well — being.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: reliefweb
Source: International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies
