First confirmed case of Ebola in France: Doctor infected after returning from the Democratic Republic of Congo

Paris – 24.06.2026: On June 24, 2026, France confirmed its first case of Ebola on its territory. The patient is a doctor who recently returned from a humanitarian mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The patient was immediately transferred to a specialized hospital and is currently in stable condition.

French health authorities have implemented preventive measures immediately, including isolating the patient and transferring the patient under safe conditions to avoid any risk of infection. A comprehensive epidemiological investigation has been conducted to identify people who may have been in contact with the patient. These individuals are being contacted by regional health authorities, are under home quarantine for 21 days, and are being closely monitored during this period.

The current Ebola outbreak in the DRC, caused by the rare Bundibugyo virus strain, has led to 1,094 confirmed cases and 277 deaths since its declaration on May 15. This is the most severe outbreak in terms of initial case numbers. Authorities warn that the actual number of cases may be higher and the epidemic may not yet have reached its peak.

Despite this imported case, the risk of wider virus transmission in Europe is assessed to be very low. French health authorities emphasize that Ebola is not transmitted through the air but only through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected persons. Therefore, strict safety protocols are applied to prevent spread.

The World Health Organization (WHO) classified the Ebola outbreak in the DRC on May 15, 2026, as a public health emergency of international concern. Previously, a case had also been reported in Uganda. French authorities have focused attention on the situation and quickly implemented measures to prevent the spread of the virus.

In France, specialized facilities have been established to treat highly contagious infectious diseases such as Ebola. These facilities have strict safety protocols, including isolation treatment rooms with negative pressure, to minimize the risk of cross-infection.

French health authorities underline that the situation is continuously monitored and all necessary measures are being taken to protect public health. The public is encouraged to stay vigilant but not to panic, as the risk of wider virus transmission is assessed as very low.

The French government has also established a surveillance system for French relief workers returning from Ebola-affected areas. This system includes monitoring body temperature for 21 days to detect possible early symptoms and prevent further virus transmission.

Overall, the situation remains tense but is tightly controlled. French health authorities cooperate closely with international organizations to prevent the spread of the virus and protect public health.