Ebola Outbreak in Eastern Congo: Cooks Provide Critical Comfort Food Amid Crisis

In the heart of an Ebola outbreak in eastern Congo, where no approved medicine or vaccine exists, volunteers are providing a critical source of comfort: food. Arlette Basekawike, a volunteer for the U.N.

food agency, prepares meals for patients and health workers at the Evangelical Medical Center in Bunia, the epicenter of the outbreak. The region is grappling with the rapidly spreading Bundibugyo virus, a rare species of Ebola confirmed in May.

As of Tuesday, the World Health Organization reported 321 cases and 48 deaths in Congo's three eastern provinces of Ituri, North and South Kivu. Neighboring Uganda has confirmed nine cases and one death, prompting Uganda to close its border with Congo.

Congolese authorities reopened Bunia's airport for domestic flights on Tuesday, requiring passengers to undergo temperature checks and adhere to strict sanitary measures. The International Organization for Migration urged governments to strengthen cross-border coordination instead, warning that border closures could drive movement underground and increase transmission risks.

The region already faced one of the world's most severe food crises due to ongoing conflict that has displaced millions. The United Nations warned that this could complicate efforts to manage the virus's spread.

The World Food Program is facing critical choices as aid cuts by the U.S. and other major partners have disrupted operations.

Attacks by suspicious residents on health workers and slow aid delivery due to conflict have also challenged containment efforts. Despite these challenges, responders have ensured patients' nutritional needs are met, with comfort food taking on significant meaning.

At least five people have recovered, and more than 400 meals have been served since food assistance began on Thursday. However, without more funding, responders may not be able to prioritize every suspected case.