Germany - Treating US Ebola charity healthcare workers transferred for care from DRC

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WHO Director-General's address to Member States at the 79th World Health Assembly – 19 May 2026

19 May 2026

President of the 79th World Health Assembly, Dr Victor Atallah Lajam,

Excellencies, Honourable Ministers and heads of delegation,

Dear colleagues and friends,

Early on Sunday, I declared a public health emergency of international concern over an epidemic of Ebola disease in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda.

This is the first time a Director-General has declared a PHEIC before convening an Emergency Committee.

I did not do this lightly.

I did it in accordance with Article 12 of the International Health Regulations, after consulting the Ministers of Health of both countries, and because I am deeply concerned about the scale and speed of the epidemic.

We will convene the Emergency Committee today to advise us on temporary recommendations.

So far, 30 cases have been confirmed in the DRC, from the northeastern province of Ituri.

Uganda has also informed WHO of two confirmed cases in the capital Kampala, including one death, among two individuals who travelled from DRC.

An American national has also been confirmed positive, and been transferred to Germany, as reported by the U.S.

We’re working with the DRC, Uganda and the United States.

There are several factors that make us concerned about the potential for further spread and further deaths.

First, beyond the confirmed cases, there are more than 500 suspected cases and 130 suspected deaths.

These numbers will change as field operations are scaling up, including strengthening surveillance, contact tracing and laboratory testing.

Second, cases have been reported in urban areas, including Kampala and the city of Goma in the DRC;

Third, deaths have been reported among health workers, indicating healthcare-associated transmission.

Fourth, there is significant population movement in the area.

The province of Ituri is highly insecure, as you may know. Conflict has intensified since late 2025, and fighting has escalated significantly over the past two months, resulting in civilian deaths.

Over 100 000 people have been newly displaced, and in Ebola outbreaks, you know what displacement means.

The area is also a mining zone, with high levels of population movement that increase the risk of further spread.

And fifth, this epidemic is caused by Bundibugyo virus, a species of Ebola virus for which there are no vaccines or therapeutics.

In the absence of a vaccine, there are many other measures countries can take to stop the spread of the virus and save lives, even without medical countermeasures, including risk communication and community engagement.

I thank the Government of Uganda for postponing the annual Martyrs’ Day celebrations, which can attract up to two million people, because of the risk posed by the epidemic.

WHO has a team on the ground supporting national authorities to respond. We have deployed people, supplies, equipment and funds.

I have approved an additional US$ 3.4 million from the Contingency Fund for Emergencies, bringing the total to US$ 3.9 million.

I would like to use this opportunity to thank all countries who contribute to the CFE, and we will continue to keep all Member States informed.

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https://www.who.int/news-room/speec...-the-79th-world-health-assembly---19-may-2026

 

[tetano]

Ebola‑Patient in Berlin

An American doctor with Ebola symptoms is flown from the Congo to Berlin and treated at the Charité. There is neither a vaccination nor an effective drug for this variant. Nevertheless, according to experts, there is no risk to the population.

https://www.n-tv.de/mediathek/video...in-warum-Deutsche-sicher-sind-id30838458.html

 

[sharon sanders]

Germany accepted US charity doctor with confirmed Ebola for treatment, from the DRC - July 13, 2026

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus
@DrTedros
.
@WHO has provided clinical care and close monitoring to a second U.S. citizen —a humanitarian worker— in eastern #DRC’s Ituri provincial capital of Bunia who has been confirmed with Ebola Bundibugyo virus disease. The patient has been safely transferred to Germany for continued follow-up care. As the outbreak escalates, an accelerated response from local, national, and international partners is urgently needed. WHO is working intensively under the government’s leadership and with
@AfricaCDC
to bring the outbreak under control as rapidly as possible. As infections among response personnel are not unexpected in an outbreak of this scale, protecting frontline responders must remain a top priority. We are deeply grateful for the courage and commitment of all health workers working to end this outbreak. WHO wishes all patients being treated for Ebola to recover swiftly and will continue supporting communities and responders across the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Last edited6:23 AM · Jul 13, 2026
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[sharon sanders]

Please see main thread:

DRC – 17th Ebola Outbreak (Bundibugyo virus) - Concerns over reliability of Government reported cumulative cases and deaths - May 2026+​

 

[Pathfinder]

German hospital treats US Ebola patient infected in Congo

By Kirsti Knolle
July 13, 20263:48 AM CDTUpdated 4 hours ago

BERLIN, July 13 (Reuters) - A U.S. citizen infected with the Ebola virus ​in Democratic Republic of Congo was admitted to Frankfurt University ‌Hospital early on Monday, officials said.

The patient arrived at the hospital's special isolation unit at around 3 a.m. after contracting the Bundibugyo variant of the ​Ebola virus in Congo, the hospital said.
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"The patient's condition is currently stable," said Timo Wolf, ​head of the special isolation unit.
An official working for Christian aid group Samaritan's Purse confirmed to Reuters that the patient, in his 60s, was a ​full-time employee working as a warehouse manager in Congo.

"He received ​early treatment and I am hopeful he's going to have a good outcome," ‌he ⁠said, expressing gratitude to the U.S. Department of State for arranging for early treatment and evacuation.
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https://www.reuters.com/business/he...s-us-ebola-patient-infected-congo-2026-07-13/

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Translation Google

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Ebola fever

Following the outbreak of Ebola fever in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the first cases in Uganda, the World Health Organization ( WHO ) declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern on May 17, 2026. Here you will find general information about the Ebola virus and the treatment of Ebola patients.

Current developments

As part of the ongoing outbreak, Germany is providing medical support for another US patient who contracted Ebola in the Congo. This patient was admitted to the University Hospital in Frankfurt am Main on July 13, 2026. In May/June, another patient was successfully treated at the Charité Hospital in Berlin. Here you will find current questions and answers.

Questions & Answers

How high is the risk to the German population from the Ebola outbreak in Africa?

The risk is generally considered to be very low.
The largest Ebola outbreak to date in West Africa in 2014/15 showed that the risk of a person infected with the Ebola virus entering Germany is very low, even when major African cities with international flight connections are affected by an outbreak.


How long is the incubation period for an Ebola infection?

The incubation period is between 2 and 21 days, with an average of 6 to 10 days.


How is Ebola fever diagnosed?

Diagnosis is made using molecular genetic testing ( PCR ). Serological methods for antigen and antibody detection, as well as virus isolation in cell culture, can serve as confirmation.


When is a suspicion of Ebola fever justified?

A well-founded suspicion of Ebola fever infection exists only in persons who have entered the country from areas with Ebola fever infections within the last 21 days, have at least a fever or elevated temperature with Ebola fever-typical accompanying symptoms, AND have had contact on site with people infected with or deceased from Ebola fever, with their bodily fluids, or with (sick) wild animals.


Why is the patient being brought to Germany?

Germany possesses medical expertise in treating Ebola fever and the capacity to safely conduct medical evacuations of infected patients under the highest safety and isolation standards. In 2014, a total of three confirmed Ebola patients were treated in Germany, and another patient was treated in 2026. Against this backdrop, and given the shorter flight time compared to the USA , US authorities have requested assistance from the German government in treating a US citizen.

For the management and care of patients with diseases caused by highly pathogenic agents, there is a nationwide network of experts in Germany, the STAKOB (Permanent Working Group of Competence and Treatment Centers for Diseases Caused by Highly Pathogenic Agents), which has already cared for infected persons in the past.

Medical care in the special isolation units is guaranteed at the highest level. The special isolation units are geographically distributed (Berlin, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt/Main, Hamburg, Leipzig, Munich, Stuttgart) so that they are easily accessible by road from all locations in Germany (within a maximum travel time of four to five hours).


Does treatment in Frankfurt pose a risk to the population if patients are admitted to the University Hospital Frankfurt?

There is no danger whatsoever to the public or to other patients at Frankfurt University Hospital. The patient is being admitted and treated in complete isolation on the special isolation ward. This ward is structurally and organizationally separate from the regular hospital operations, ensuring no contact with other patients.

The highest safety standards also apply to the handling of potentially contaminated materials. Wastewater generated by the patient is collected in special tanks, treated, and neutralized before being discharged into the sewer system in a controlled manner. Waste generated—including used protective suits—is collected separately and safely disposed of by a specialized company. Furthermore, the building's exhaust air is purified by two filter systems before being released outside.


Why is a special isolation station so important?

Especially in times of increasing risks due to pandemics, biological hazards, hybrid threats, or highly critical contamination scenarios, such specialized infrastructure is a key component of modern healthcare security. It enables rapid response, protects patients and staff, and simultaneously strengthens the resilience of the entire healthcare system. This structure is particularly valuable in Frankfurt, given its proximity to a major international airport, and enhances resilience and crisis preparedness.


How many special isolation stations are there currently in Germany, where are they located, and how is your house integrated into this network?

There are 7 special isolation stations that cooperate within the STAKOB network.


How is the staff working there selected, trained and regularly educated – and at what intervals do training sessions or simulations take place?

The staff of the special isolation unit receive regular training and further education. Training sessions covering various aspects of special isolation care take place at least every three months, and usually monthly.


Which protective measures are particularly important for staff?

The consistent and trained use of protective equipment while avoiding direct skin contact is an essential protective measure.


What experience does Frankfurt University Hospital have with highly pathogenic agents?

The Department of Infectious Diseases at Frankfurt University Hospital has successfully treated four patients in the past. These four patients had two Lassa virus infections and two Ebola virus infections, two of whom were severely ill.


What precautions need to be taken?

In accordance with the Infection Protection Act, infected individuals must be isolated and treated in a suitable facility (special isolation ward). In cases of suspected Ebola fever, preliminary laboratory testing for Ebola virus may be performed in a suitable biosafety level 3 (BSL-3) laboratory. If an Ebola virus infection is confirmed, laboratory testing must be carried out in a biosafety level 4 (BSL-4) laboratory.


What would happen if a passenger developed symptoms typical of Ebola fever?

If a passenger develops symptoms typical of Ebola fever during a flight, the pilot is required by the International Health Regulations Implementation Act ( IHR -DG) to report this to air traffic control, which then informs the destination airport and the public health authority. The responsible public health authority can order the aircraft to divert to an airport designated under the IHR -DG, which is specially prepared for infectious disease emergencies (formerly known as a "medical airport"). There, the patient would be isolated and interviewed by a physician from the responsible public health authority. If Ebola fever is suspected, the passenger would be transferred to a special isolation ward for diagnosis and treatment. At the same time, individuals who have been in close contact with such patients (seatmates and those who directly cared for the patient) would be registered by the public health authority and informed about further procedures (in particular, self-monitoring for symptoms of illness within the next 21 days).


Successful treatment of a US citizen at Charité - May/June 2026

In May 2026, US authorities requested assistance from the German government in treating a US citizen infected with Ebola in the Democratic Republic of Congo , citing the shorter flight time compared to the US . The patient was transferred to the special isolation ward at the Charité hospital in Berlin for treatment.

Furthermore, US authorities have requested assistance in taking in the family members (wife and four children) who were also in the Democratic Republic of Congo and were considered contacts. These individuals were transferred to the special isolation ward of the Charité hospital in Berlin.

The US citizen was released from medical care on June 6, 2026, after the quarantine was lifted. Charité regularly provided updates on the patient's treatment on its website .


Further information

• Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo
  
  The Robert Koch Institute provides continuous updates on current developments on its website.

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• General information about Ebola fever
  
  Answers to frequently asked questions about Ebola fever and the option to download the pathogen fact sheet can be found on the BIÖG website.

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As of July 13, 2026


​https://www.bundesgesundheitsministerium.de/service/begriffe-von-a-z/e/ebola

 

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https://iris.who.int/server/api/core/bitstreams/46bd6014-40e9-4b5e-9046-9687ce6568c3/content

 

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Translation Google​

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Current information: Treatment of a person infected with Ebola at the University Hospital Frankfurt
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Update Thursday, 16th of July 2026


FIRST UPDATE ON THE HEALTH CONDITION OF THE PERSON DIAGNOSED WITH EBOLA AT UNIVERSITÄTSMEDIZIN FRANKFURT

On the night of July 13, 2026, a person infected with the Ebola virus was admitted to Universitätsmedizin Frankfurt. The person had become infected with the Bundibugyo virus – a variant of the Ebola virus – in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and was exhibiting the corresponding symptoms, including, in particular, a high fever. After the patient was admitted, their condition was stabilized. Transport to the special isolation unit at Universitätsmedizin Frankfurt – established specifically for such cases – proceeded according to protocol and without incident. “The unit is designed, both structurally and organizationally, to be separate from the rest of the hospital's operations, ensuring there is no contact with other patients or visitors,” explains PD Dr. Timo Wolf, Head of the Special Isolation Unit for Highly Pathogenic Infectious Agents. “Consequently, there has never been – and there is still no – risk of infection to the general public.”

The patient's symptoms are improving and they are benefiting from the supportive treatment measures. The patient remains in stable condition.
In the past, patients with highly contagious hemorrhagic fever – which is caused, among other things, by Ebola viruses – have already been successfully treated at Universitätsmedizin Frankfurt: One patient was infected with Ebola, and two others with the Lassa virus.

“Universitätsmedizin Frankfurt has already demonstrated on multiple occasions that the safe care of patients with highly pathogenic diseases is based on precisely coordinated processes, well-coordinated teamwork, and the highest level of reliability,” said Prof. Dr. Jürgen Graf, Chairman of the Executive Board and Medical Director of University Medicine Frankfurt. "This requires careful preparation and close cooperation – both among the professional groups involved and with the relevant state and federal authorities. This is how we ensure the greatest possible safety for our patients and staff."

The special isolation unit at Universitäsmedizin Frankfurt is one of seven such facilities in Germany. They collaborate as part of the STAKOB network, the “Permanent Working Group of Centers of Excellence and Treatment Centers for Diseases Caused by Highly Pathogenic Pathogens.” The staff at the isolation unit receive regular and comprehensive training to ensure both the safety of everyone involved and the best possible therapeutic care.

We will continue to provide updates here at regular intervals.


​https://www.unimedizin-ffm.de/ueber...-person-an-der-universitaetsmedizin-frankfurt

 

[Pathfinder]

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Current information: Treatment of a person infected with Ebola at the University Hospital Frankfurt
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Update Monday, 20th of July 2026


SECOND UPDATE ON THE HEALTH CONDITION OF THE PERSON DIAGNOSED WITH EBOLA AT UNIVERSITÄTSMEDIZIN FRANKFURT

Since July 13, 2026, a person infected with Ebola has been receiving treatment in the special isolation unit at Universitätsmedizin Frankfurt. The patient, who contracted the Bundibugyo virus - a variant of the Ebola virus - in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, exhibits the typical symptoms of hemorrhagic fever. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of the highly qualified staff and medical treatment in the specially equipped isolation unit, the patient's condition has been stabilized.

“The virus is only detectable in the blood after physical symptoms have appeared,” explains PD Dr. Timo Wolf, head of the special isolation unit for highly pathogenic infectious agents. “Once an infection is suspected, a definitive diagnosis is then made through molecular genetic testing using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR).” PCR methods enable the direct laboratory detection of pathogens in the diagnosis of infectious diseases.

The condition of the patient infected with the Bundibugyo virus has continued to improve significantly.

To ensure they are optimally prepared at all times, the team at the special isolation unit at Universitätsmedizin Frankfurt regularly conducts simulations. These focus on coordinated collaboration among all involved professional groups, close coordination with the relevant state and federal authorities, and the proper handling of potentially contaminated materials. “The highest safety standards apply to every step and at all levels of isolation care, ensuring that there is no risk to our colleagues,” adds PD Dr. Tim Wolf.

The specially trained teams at the special isolation unit have already demonstrated their expertise on several occasions: In the past, they successfully treated a patient with Ebola as well as two individuals infected with the Lassa virus.

We will continue to provide updates at regular intervals.


https://www.unimedizin-ffm.de/ueber...-person-an-der-universitaetsmedizin-frankfurt

 

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Translation Google

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Current information: Treatment of a person infected with Ebola at the University Hospital Frankfurt

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Press release Tuesday, July 28, 2026: Ebola patient discharged healthy from Frankfurt University Hospital


Joy and relief all involved: Approximately two weeks after being admitted, the person originally infected with the Bundibugyo virus was able to leave the special isolation ward at Frankfurt University Hospital. This success was made possible by a team that was optimally prepared medically, technically, and surgically for the isolation treatment.

In May 2026, the first infections with the Bundibugyo virus, a variant of the Ebola virus, were confirmed in the Democratic Republic of Congo. International aid began arriving in parallel. On Monday, July 13, 2026, a person infected with the Ebola virus was admitted to the University Hospital Frankfurt for treatment.

Her condition was stabilized in the special isolation ward for highly pathogenic infectious agents at the Department of Internal Medicine II. Thanks to supportive therapy, an improvement in symptoms was soon observed. This positive trend continued in the following days. The patient was discharged from Frankfurt University Hospital on July 28, 2026. She has fully recovered from the illness and is symptom-free upon discharge.

“We are proud and delighted that Frankfurt University Hospital, with its extensive expertise and specialized isolation infrastructure, was able to contribute to the safe and successful care of the person infected with the Bundibugyo virus, enabling them to leave the special isolation ward independently today,” said Prof. Dr. Jürgen Graf, Medical Director and Chairman of the Board of Frankfurt University Hospital. “Our special thanks go to our colleagues in the special isolation ward, who have met the significant physical and psychological challenges of recent weeks with dedication, reliability, and professionalism. University hospitals in Germany are known for these and similarly outstanding medical achievements, for example, in the treatment of rare diseases, in the area of ​​public services, or in the context of clinical trials. The university hospitals comprise a total of 37 high-performance medical centers among the more than 1,800 hospitals in Germany.”

Efficient Infrastructure of the Special Isolation Units:

Before the infected person could be admitted to Frankfurt University Hospital, extensive coordination with the relevant authorities and healthcare facilities had taken place. "The person was brought to the special isolation unit with a severe case of Ebola. Their condition steadily improved. They are currently asymptomatic and in good condition. From the flight and transport from Frankfurt Airport to the special isolation unit at Frankfurt University Hospital, everything ran smoothly," confirms PD Dr. Timo Wolf, Head of the Special Isolation Unit. "The highly specialized infrastructure for isolation treatments in Germany has proven its worth once again in this case." The special isolation unit in its current, modern form has been in operation at Frankfurt University Hospital since 2002. Among others, an Ebola patient and two patients infected with the Lassa virus have already been successfully treated here.

Frankfurt University Hospital is one of seven treatment centers nationwide with a special isolation ward. These centers are distributed across Germany in such a way that they can be reached from anywhere within the country within a very short time. They are therefore an indispensable component of preventative healthcare and make a significant contribution to Germany's resilience in times of crisis. Frankfurt plays a particularly important role in this. As an international air traffic hub with one of Europe's largest airports, the region is a key element of the national strategy to ensure healthcare even in exceptional situations. The person infected with the Bundibugyo virus also benefited from this.

Complex and challenging therapy:

The special isolation ward is strictly separated from regular hospital operations. Special structural and organizational measures ensure that there is no contact with other patients. Potentially contaminated materials, wastewater, and exhaust air are disposed of or filtered in a special manner. The work is extremely strenuous for the staff. Upon entering a patient's room, they painstakingly don protective gear, including a full-body suit, helmet, gloves, and
boots. Upon leaving, the room is thoroughly disinfected, the protective equipment is removed in a prescribed order, and disposed of properly.

“Thank you for your dedication and discipline!” praised Peter Fleckenstein, head of nursing at the special isolation unit, commending the performance of his colleagues. “The procedures before and after entering the patient’s room were carried out routinely and according to regulations – thanks in part to regular training – thus laying the foundation for the greatest possible safety for all staff members.”

Supportive therapy generally involves regulating fluid balance, stabilizing circulation, respiration and certain organs if necessary, and administering antibiotics in the case of bacterial infection – all through close monitoring of the infected person's health.

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​https://www.unimedizin-ffm.de/ueber...-person-an-der-universitaetsmedizin-frankfurt