U.S. expresses concern over possible Ebola infections among Americans in DR Congo

By The Inspirer.

The United States has raised concern that some American nationals in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) may have been exposed to Ebola following the outbreak reported in Bunia, Ituri Province.

During a press briefing on May 17, Dr. Satish K. Pillai, a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) official responsible for Ebola response coordination, was asked whether any American citizens had tested positive. He declined to confirm specific cases.

Dr. Pillai said the CDC was working closely with international partners and diplomatic missions to assess the situation and determine appropriate response measures.

“We are working with partners in-country and with embassies to evaluate all cases and respond accordingly. This is a rapidly evolving situation, and we will continue to monitor it closely,” he said.

Journalists pressed for clarity amid reports suggesting that American nationals may have contracted the virus and could be considered for evacuation and treatment abroad.

Dr. Pillai declined to comment on individual cases, citing privacy rules, and said any verified updates would be communicated through official channels.

Before the briefing, the CDC had confirmed it was supporting response efforts and assisting in the evacuation of a small number of Americans potentially affected by the outbreak.

According to The Washington Post, those involved include staff linked to a non-governmental organization operating in Ituri Province.

STAT News also reported that unnamed officials acknowledged U.S. concerns over possible infections and said discussions were ongoing on how to relocate affected citizens for medical monitoring and care.

Among the cases cited is one individual reportedly showing symptoms consistent with Ebola, prompting urgent considerations for evacuation and isolation.

Reports indicate that options under discussion include treatment in the United States or isolation at a U.S. military facility in Germany.

The outbreak involves the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, first identified in the region earlier in 2026. The initial confirmed case reportedly died in April, though official reporting was delayed.

Health authorities in the DRC say at least 88 people have died so far, while containment and surveillance efforts continue in affected areas.