First Case of Ebola Hemorrhagic Fever Confirmed in France

Paris – June 24, 2026: On June 24, 2026, the French Ministry of Health confirmed the first case of Ebola virus infection in France. The infected individual is a doctor who returned from a humanitarian mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The patient was immediately isolated in a specialized facility, and their condition is stable.

French health authorities have taken immediate measures to prevent further spread of the virus. These include isolating the patient and conducting a comprehensive epidemiological investigation to identify potentially infectious contacts. Contacts are placed under strict monitoring with a 21-day home quarantine.

In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the source of the virus, over 1,000 confirmed cases and 277 deaths have been reported since the outbreak was declared on May 15. This represents the most severe outbreak in terms of case numbers for a first month, affecting Ituri Province, which faces challenges such as population movements due to armed conflict.

Despite the imported case in France, health authorities assess the risk of regional spread within the country as very low. The Ebola virus is not airborne and is transmitted only through direct contact with the bodily fluids of an infected person. French hospitals are equipped with specialized facilities and strict safety protocols to handle such cases and prevent spread.

Furthermore, the French health authorities have established a special monitoring system for returnees from affected regions. This system includes temperature monitoring over 21 days. Additionally, to minimize further risk of spread, travel to affected regions is discouraged.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo an international public health emergency. The situation is continuously monitored, and measures are being implemented to prevent virus spread both within and outside the region.

French health authorities will continue to work closely with international partners, monitor the situation, and implement additional measures as needed. The public is urged to verify official information and follow health authority instructions to protect public health.

This case reiterates the importance of preventive measures and rapid response to highly infectious diseases like Ebola. The French health authorities emphasize prioritizing the safety and health of the public and taking all necessary steps to prevent virus spread.