China dispatches medical expert team to DR Congo to strengthen Ebola response

BEIJING: China on Tuesday dispatched a high-level medical expert team to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to assist local authorities in combating a renewed Ebola outbreak, reaffirming Beijing’s commitment to global public health cooperation and international epidemic response efforts.

The deployment comes shortly after the World Health Organization (WHO) classified the Ebola outbreak in the DRC as a “Public Health Emergency of International Concern” on May 17, prompting countries and international health organizations to intensify efforts aimed at containing the disease and preventing its further spread.

According to Chinese health authorities, the expert team departed from Beijing carrying extensive experience in infectious disease prevention, outbreak management and emergency public health response. The specialists are expected to work closely with the Chinese medical team already stationed in the African nation, as well as with local healthcare institutions and public health agencies.

Officials said the primary objective of the mission is to support the DRC’s efforts to contain the outbreak, strengthen disease surveillance mechanisms and enhance local capacity for Ebola prevention, diagnosis and treatment.

The medical experts will provide technical assistance and practical guidance to healthcare professionals on the ground while helping establish more effective epidemic control measures in affected regions.

In addition to direct support for local health authorities, the team will conduct training programmes for medical personnel in hospitals and healthcare facilities throughout the country. Specialized workshops and emergency preparedness exercises will also be organized for members of the Chinese medical mission, staff of the Chinese Embassy, Chinese enterprises operating in the DRC and overseas Chinese citizens residing in the country.

A representative of China’s National Health Commission (NHC) said the dispatch of the expert team reflects China’s continued commitment to international solidarity in the fight against infectious diseases.

“China is willing to share its valuable experience in epidemic prevention and control while working closely with the Democratic Republic of the Congo and international partners to curb the spread of Ebola,” the official stated.

The official added that the expert team would tailor its recommendations and technical support to local conditions, helping improve the DRC’s long-term capacity to respond to infectious disease outbreaks and future public health emergencies.

China has accumulated significant experience in managing major health crises over the years, including outbreaks of SARS, COVID-19 and other infectious diseases. Chinese medical experts have frequently participated in international health missions and emergency response operations in various parts of the world.

Since the latest Ebola outbreak emerged, the 24th batch of the Chinese medical team currently serving in the DRC has already activated emergency response procedures. The team has established a comprehensive prevention and control framework that includes staff training, emergency drills, medical supply coordination and enhanced health protection measures.

Medical personnel have remained on the front lines, working alongside local healthcare workers to provide clinical services and strengthen disease monitoring efforts. Their work has focused on safeguarding both local communities and Chinese nationals living and working in the country.

Health experts warn that Ebola remains one of the world’s most dangerous infectious diseases, with outbreaks posing serious challenges for healthcare systems, particularly in regions with limited medical resources. Effective containment requires rapid diagnosis, contact tracing, public awareness campaigns and strict infection prevention measures.

The latest Chinese assistance mission is expected to further strengthen international efforts to control the outbreak and reduce the risk of cross-border transmission. Observers say the initiative highlights China’s growing role in global health governance and its continued support for African countries facing public health challenges.

As the DRC continues its battle against Ebola, cooperation among national governments, international organizations and medical experts remains crucial in preventing the outbreak from escalating and ensuring the protection of vulnerable populations.