France confirms first case of Ebola

Paris – June 24, 2026: The French Ministry of Health confirmed the first case of Ebola virus infection in France on June 24, 2026. The patient is a doctor who recently returned from a humanitarian mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The patient has been immediately isolated in a specialized medical facility and is currently in stable condition.

The French health authorities quickly took measures to prevent further spread of the virus. This includes isolating the patient and conducting a comprehensive epidemiological investigation to identify possible contacts. Contacts will be placed under strict home quarantine and monitored for 21 days.

Since the outbreak was declared on May 15, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, as the origin of the virus, has reported more than 1,000 confirmed cases and 277 deaths. This is the most severe outbreak the country has experienced in its first month. The affected area is Ituri Province, where health authorities face multiple challenges such as population movements caused by armed conflict.

Although imported cases of the Ebola virus have appeared in France, health authorities emphasize that the risk of local virus transmission is very low. The Ebola virus is not transmitted through the air but only through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected persons. French hospitals are equipped with specialized facilities and strict safety protocols to handle such cases and prevent the spread of the virus.

French health authorities have also established a special monitoring system for returnees from affected areas, which includes 21 days of temperature monitoring. Furthermore, travel to affected areas is discouraged to reduce the risk of further transmission.

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 being continuously monitored, and measures are being taken to prevent the spread of the virus both in the region and internationally.

French health authorities will continue to work closely with international partners to monitor the outbreak’s development and take further measures if necessary. The public is urged to follow official information and comply with health authority guidelines to protect public health.

This case highlights the importance of taking preventive measures and responding swiftly to highly contagious diseases like Ebola. French health authorities emphasize that the safety and health of the public are the top priorities, and all necessary steps will be taken to stop the virus from spreading.