Disaster Response
Frontline animal care as Ebola outbreak unfolds in Central Africa
Frontline animal care as Ebola outbreak unfolds in Central Africa
May 22, 2026
Recent reports of Ebola cases in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda are raising concern across the region, particularly for communities already facing instability, displacement, and limited access to healthcare. The World Health Organization has declared the outbreak a public health emergency of international concern as health officials work to contain the spread of the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola virus, a rare strain for which there is currently no approved vaccine.
Health workers and local volunteers carry disinfectant containers and sanitation equipment outside the General Referral Hospital during the Ebola outbreak response on 21 May, 2026 in Mongbwalu, Democratic Republic of Congo. Photo: © 2026 Getty Images
IFAW is in direct contact with partners in both DRC and Uganda to assess evolving needs and help support the safety of frontline teams caring for animals in affected areas.
Supporting frontline partners in DRC and Uganda
In DRC, cases have now been reported beyond Ituri Province, including in South Kivu, where IFAW partner Sauvons Nos Animaux (SNA) operates an animal shelter and conducts rescue activities supporting vulnerable communities and their animals.
For SNA and other local animal welfare organisations, daily operations continue even during public health emergencies. Animals still require food, medical care, rescue, and shelter, while communities facing crisis often rely heavily on trusted local organisations for stability and support.
One immediate concern is transportation safety. SNA team members currently depend largely on crowded public transportation to travel to the shelter, obtain supplies, and respond to animal welfare emergencies, creating additional challenges as health officials work to contain the outbreak.
In Uganda, where authorities have already activated surveillance and response measures, IFAW is checking in with partners to help ensure they have appropriate protective equipment, health protocols, and contingency plans in place as the situation develops.
Protecting animals and communities during Ebola outbreaks
Public health emergencies can also fuel fear and misinformation around animals. Ebola is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can spread between animals and humans, with fruit bats believed to be the virus’s natural reservoir. Outbreaks are thought to begin when the virus passes from infected wildlife to humans, often through close contact with wild animals or contaminated bodily fluids.
During previous outbreaks in the region, misinformation and stigma have sometimes led to harmful responses toward wildlife, domestic animals, and even the people caring for them. IFAW is therefore also discussing potential support for community awareness efforts led by local partners, helping to share accurate information about disease prevention, animal welfare, and coexistence during outbreaks.
Monitoring evolving needs as the outbreak develops
Eastern DRC has faced repeated humanitarian and public health crises in recent years, including conflict, displacement, and previous Ebola outbreaks. Despite these challenges, local responders and community organisations continue working under extraordinarily difficult conditions to support both people and animals.
As the situation evolves, IFAW will continue coordinating closely with partners on the ground and assessing where support can be most effective in helping communities and their animals remain safe.
Related content
Every problem has a solution, every solution needs support.
The problems we face are urgent, complicated, and resistant to change. Real solutions demand creativity, hard work, and involvement from people like you.
DonateIFAW affiliates are registered as tax-exempt nonprofit organizations in several countries. Depending on where you reside, your donation may qualify for a tax deduction or benefit. See the pull-down menu at the bottom right of this page to see how IFAW operates in your country.