Three volunteers from the Red Cross in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) have died after reportedly contracting Ebola while carrying out humanitarian work in the northeastern province of Ituri.

According to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), the volunteers were involved in dead body management activities on 27 March, before local authorities had officially identified the Ebola outbreak.

The victims, identified as Alikana Udumusi Augustin, Sezabo Katanabo and Ajiko Chandiru Viviane, worked in Mongbwalu, considered the epicentre of the outbreak.

The IFRC stated that the volunteers likely became infected because bodies of Ebola victims remain highly contagious after death, especially when handled without proper protective equipment.One volunteer died on 5 May, while the other two passed away on 15 and 16 May.The organisation praised their courage and dedication while serving vulnerable communities in dangerous conditions.The World Health Organization has declared the outbreak an international public health emergency.

Current figures indicate 82 confirmed Ebola cases and seven confirmed deaths in DR Congo, along with hundreds of suspected infections and fatalities still under investigation.Health authorities believe the virus may have circulated undetected for some time before being officially recognised.The outbreak involves the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, a less common variant for which there are currently no approved vaccines or treatments.The IFRC has launched an emergency appeal seeking 29 million Swiss francs to support response efforts.

Aid workers are continuing community outreach campaigns to improve awareness and combat misinformation, as some residents reportedly remain sceptical about the existence of the disease.Health officials warn that rapid community cooperation will be critical to preventing wider transmission across the region.