Dozens of workers at an Ebola virus treatment centre in northeastern Congo went on strike on Monday over unpaid salaries and allowances, creating additional difficulties for health authorities battling what has been described as the fastest-growing Ebola outbreak recorded on the African continent. The protest has raised concerns about the impact of delayed payments on efforts to contain the deadly disease. The strike took place at Rwampara General Hospital in Ituri province, the epicentre of the ongoing Ebola outbreak. The protesting workers include epidemiologists, case investigators, drivers, and gravediggers involved in the response operation.

They alleged that they had not received payments from Congolese authorities despite continuing to work on the front lines of the outbreak. Congo has been dealing with an outbreak of a rare type of Ebola since May. The outbreak involves the Bundibugyo virus, a strain for which there is currently no approved treatment or vaccine. The situation has become more challenging after health officials confirmed that the virus had spread to two additional provinces. The Congolese government officially declared the Ebola outbreak on May 15, after the disease had reportedly been circulating for several weeks without being detected.

According to the World Health Organization, the delay in identifying the outbreak was partly linked to testing procedures, as initial investigations focused on a more common strain of Ebola. The striking health workers at Rwampara General Hospital shut down the facility and blocked the road leading to the centre during their protest. Some demonstrators also burned a tyre outside the hospital as they demanded the release of their pending payments. “We don’t know how it is possible to not have been paid for two months,” health worker Bahati Claude told The Associated Press.

Also Read: Bangkok Pub Fire Leaves Families Devastated As Victims’ Bodies Recovered

He added that the workers did not want to abandon their responsibilities but needed authorities to address their financial concerns. The treatment centre affected by the strike is separate from another Ebola facility in Ituri province where researchers recently began a study involving two urgently needed treatments. Health officials and international partners have been working to strengthen the response as infections continue to rise. The outbreak has placed significant pressure on Congo’s healthcare system, with medical workers playing a critical role in identifying cases, monitoring contacts, supporting patients and safely managing burials.

However, health experts have warned that disruptions among frontline workers could make containment efforts more difficult. Authorities are now facing the challenge of resolving the payment dispute while ensuring that Ebola response activities continue without interruption. With the virus spreading beyond its original location and no approved vaccine or treatment available for the specific strain involved, maintaining a strong and coordinated healthcare response remains a key priority.

Also Read: Global Phone Shipments Fall 4%, But Samsung, Apple Gain Ground