Armed men stormed a hospital treating Ebola patients in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, forcing staff to evacuate in the third attack on healthcare facilities in a single week.
The assault disrupted treatment and containment efforts in a region already struggling to control a spreading outbreak. Medical workers fled as gunmen entered the facility, leaving patients without immediate care.
Health officials said repeated violence against Ebola centers undermines community trust and complicates contact tracing. The World Health Organization has warned that insecurity is outpacing public health responses in affected areas.
Local authorities have not publicly identified the attackers or their motives. Aid organizations operating in eastern DRC said security escorts and relocation plans are being reassessed after the latest incident.
The attack occurred as international agencies coordinate vaccine deployment and laboratory support across neighboring provinces. Humanitarian groups urged all parties to respect medical neutrality under international law.
Gunmen attacked a hospital treating Ebola patients in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, marking the third assault on healthcare facilities in one week. Staff evacuated as containment efforts struggled amid insecurity that disrupts treatment and contact tracing.
Aid convoys require armed escorts in several eastern provinces where non-state groups operate. Previous attacks forced temporary suspension of vaccination teams serving communities near outbreak zones.
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Sources:
https://www.npr.org/sections/news/