Bunia, DRC — In the latest Ebola outbreak in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), at least 189 children have died, and thousands of others are addressing fear and trauma, according to Save the Children.
The crisis has led to the establishment of safe spaces for over 4,000 children in Ituri, the epicentre of the outbreak, where they receive mental health and psychosocial support.
The outbreak, declared on May 15, 2026, has seen 476 children confirmed as having contracted the disease, with the Bundibugyo species of Ebola virus identified as the cause.
The rapid spread of the virus, with a majority of new cases emerging from unknown chains of transmission, has made it challenging for health officials to track and respond effectively. Save the Children has emphasized the mental health needs of the affected children, noting that the outbreak has taken a severe toll on the young population. Many children are living in fear after witnessing illness and death in their communities, and there are concerns about whether they will be able to return to school in September.
Child Friendly Spaces have been established to provide a safe environment for children to express themselves, rebuild confidence, and reconnect with peers. Activities such as storytelling, educational songs, reading and writing, drawing, clay modelling, and relaxation exercises are adapted to ensure safety with enhanced hygiene and physical distancing protocols. Dr Babou Rukengeza, Save the Children’s Ebola Response Lead in the DRC, highlighted the emotional burden carried by children in Ituri, who have witnessed violence, lost loved ones due to the Ebola outbreak, or experienced repeated displacement.
He stressed the importance of social — emotional and responsive care for children and adolescents’development, wellbeing, and mental health.
The international community is urged to increase funding for child protection and mental health and psychosocial support services, as needs continue to outpace available resources in eastern DRC. Save the Children partners with local organizations, international agencies, and government authorities to deliver life-saving support in various sectors, including health, nutrition, education, and child protection.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: reliefweb
Source: Save the Children
