Leading epidemiologist Professor Salim Abdool Karim has warned that South Africa could face an imported Ebola case if the outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo is not contained.

The warning comes as the outbreak continues to spread in the DRC, where health-care facilities are battling shortages of basic materials.

Abdool Karim said South Africa’s risk is linked to regular travel between the two countries, including daily flights.

He warned that if transmission continues, it may become “only a matter of time” before a case is imported into South Africa.

The warning does not mean Ebola is currently spreading in South Africa.

But it does raise pressure on health authorities to stay ready, especially at ports of entry and in hospitals.

DRC outbreak continues to spread

The outbreak was confirmed in the DRC and Uganda in May 2026.

According to the World Health Organization, the outbreak involves the Bundibugyo species of Ebola.

The WHO has said there is currently no approved vaccine or specific treatment for this species, although work is under way to test possible candidates.

The outbreak is unfolding in a difficult setting, with humanitarian pressures, insecurity and densely populated areas making response work harder.

Health workers under pressure

Health-care workers in affected areas are facing serious risks.

Reports from the outbreak response show that some medical staff have also fallen ill while treating patients.

Health facilities are struggling with shortages of protective gear, transport and other basic supplies needed to safely respond to Ebola.

These gaps can make it harder to isolate patients, trace contacts and prevent further infections.

Ebola spreads through contact with bodily fluids, making health-care workers, caregivers and families especially vulnerable during outbreaks.

SA response readiness now key

Public health experts say early detection is critical.

For South Africa, that means alert screening systems, fast laboratory testing and clear protocols for suspected cases.

Hospitals also need staff who know how to identify symptoms, isolate patients safely and protect themselves from exposure.

The National Institute for Communicable Diseases has confirmed it is monitoring the outbreak.

For ordinary South Africans, the key message is not panic, but preparedness.

If the DRC outbreak is contained quickly, the risk to South Africa remains lower.

If it keeps spreading, health authorities will need to move fast to prevent any imported case from becoming a local emergency.