In a statement issued on 15 May 2026, the ministry said the outbreak in eastern DRC has resulted in hundreds of suspected cases and dozens of deaths, particularly in areas near South Sudan’s borders.

According to health authorities in DRC, preliminary laboratory tests conducted in Ituri Province confirmed Ebola in 13 of 20 samples tested. Officials there have reported around 246 suspected cases and 65 deaths, mainly in the health zones of Monwalu and Rwampara.

The ministry said the movement of people and continued cross-border trade between affected areas and South Sudan increases the risk of the disease spreading into the country.

“The Ministry of Health wishes to reassure the public that the government, together with partners, is closely monitoring the situation and has intensified preparedness and response measures across the country,” the statement partly reads.

The ministry also confirmed that Uganda recently recorded a case of Ebola Bundibugyo Virus Disease involving a 59-year-old Congolese man who later died in Kampala. Ugandan authorities said the infection was imported from DRC and no local transmission has been detected.

“The public is advised to remain calm but vigilant and to cooperate fully with health authorities in reporting any suspected cases,” the ministry said.

According to the statement, South Sudan’s Ministry of Health is working with the National Public Health Institute, the World Health Organization and other partners to strengthen surveillance, screening and rapid response systems.

Officials called on citizens to immediately report symptoms associated with Ebola, including sudden fever, fatigue, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle pain, headache and unexplained bleeding, to the nearest health facility or through the toll-free hotline 6666.

The ministry also advised the public to avoid physical contact with anyone showing Ebola-like symptoms, maintain regular handwashing and avoid contact with body fluids of infected persons.

“Early detection, prompt reporting and adherence to public health guidance are essential in preventing the spread of Ebola Virus Disease,” the statement added.

South Sudan has previously heightened surveillance and screening measures following Ebola outbreaks in neighboring countries due to concerns over porous borders and continued population movement between border communities.

Health authorities have in recent years conducted screening at border entry points and public awareness campaigns aimed at preventing imported Ebola cases.

Ebola is a severe viral disease spread through direct contact with infected body fluids or contaminated objects. Health experts say early detection and isolation remain critical in containing outbreaks.