DRC: Two Ebola health care workers killed in North Kivu province July 13 /update 8

Event

Two Ebola health care workers were killed by unidentified assailants in their homes in Mukulia (North Kivu province) on the night (local time) of Saturday, July 13. Sources indicate the victims were community leaders who had previously faced threats and attacks.

Attacks targeting healthcare workers and Ebola treatment facilities remain possible in North Kivu province over the near term as the disease continues to spread in the area.  

Context

Ebola healthcare workers and treatment facilities have been repeatedly attacked by militants operating in the area in recent weeks and months. Two treatment centers in Butembo were recently targeted by suspected militiamen on April 19 and May 8, resulting in multiple deaths and injuries.

The government's limited presence in the DRC's eastern provinces, including North Kivu, as well as the presence of numerous armed groups and local self-defense militias have led to continued insecurity in the area. Humanitarian organizations have stated that security conditions in North and South Kivu provinces present a major obstacle to delivering humanitarian assistance to those in need, as kidnappings, including of Congolese and foreign aid workers, are frequent in the area.

Advice

Individuals in North Kivu province are advised to monitor the situation, remain vigilant for militant activity, and take measures to prevent the contraction and spread of Ebola virus disease (EVD).