United Nations (UN) agencies warn that nearly three million children and adolescents are at risk in affected areas, particularly in Ituri province, the epicentre of the outbreak. Children account for about 15% of infections but more than 25% of deaths, highlighting their heightened vulnerability.
The UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Executive Director, Catherine Russell, said children face unique risks due to their dependence on caregivers. “Children are especially vulnerable because they depend on caregivers and cannot distance themselves from a sick parent or sibling,” Russell said.
More than 130 children in Ituri have already lost one or both parents, with many left to cope in communities where fear and misinformation remain widespread.
At the same time, insecurity in the region continues to hamper contact tracing and surveillance efforts, slowing the response despite improved testing capacity.
UNICEF has expanded support services, including psychosocial care and alternative care arrangements, while opening a nursery to provide safe spaces for children separated from families. However, the agency says funding remains insufficient, with a $70.7 million response plan still facing a significant shortfall.
Meanwhile, the World Health Organisation has strengthened preparedness in high-risk settings, including prisons. In Bunia, a temporary Ebola isolation unit has been established within a detention facility housing around 2 000 inmates.
Health officials warn that overcrowded environments, such as prisons, could accelerate transmission if preventative measures are not maintained.
–UN/ChannelAfrica–
