First Case of Ebola Infection Confirmed in France

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

The French health authorities have taken swift measures to prevent the spread of the virus. These include the isolation of the patient along with an extensive epidemiological investigation to identify potential contacts. These contacts will be placed under strict home quarantine with monitoring for 21 days.

In the Democratic Republic of Congo, the origin of the outbreak, more than 1,000 confirmed cases and 277 deaths have been reported since the outbreak was declared on May 15. This represents the most severe outbreak within the first month of occurrence. The affected area is the Ituri province, where health authorities face several challenges, including population movements due to armed conflicts.

Although this is an imported case in France, health authorities emphasize that the risk of local virus spread is very low. Ebola is not transmitted through the air but only through direct contact with the bodily fluids of an infected person. French hospitals have specialized facilities and strict safety protocols to treat such cases and prevent further transmission.

Furthermore, the French health authorities have established a special surveillance system for people returning from the affected regions. This system includes monitoring body temperature for 21 days and recommends avoiding travel to the affected areas to reduce the risk of further spread.

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

Health authorities in France are closely watching the situation and will work closely with international partners to take additional measures if necessary. The public is urged to verify official information and comply with health authority guidelines to protect public health.

This case serves as a reminder of the importance of preventive measures and rapid response to highly contagious diseases like Ebola. The French health authorities emphasize that the safety and health of the public are their top priorities and that they will take all necessary measures to prevent the spread of the virus.