Red Cross working to stop Ebola outbreaks
The Red Cross is helping in areas where Ebola infections have increased and is also taking preparation measures in areas where the disease could spread.
The Ebola epidemic caused by the Bundibugyo virus is spreading in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The authorities have also confirmed cases of Ebola in Uganda.
The Finnish Red Cross is supporting the aid operation of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) in the Democratic Republic of Congo to stop the outbreak.
In order to stop the spread of Ebola, the Red Cross is sharing information about the disease, intensifying the monitoring of infections and helping to bury the dead safely to avoid further infections. Red Cross volunteers from the Democratic Republic of Congo are going door-to-door in affected areas to tell families how Ebola is spread. Volunteers correct misconceptions about the spread of the disease and encourage people to seek treatment early if symptoms appear.
The International Red Cross is also sending aid workers and protective equipment to the Democratic Republic of Congo.
In October 2025, the Finnish Red Cross allocated 400,000 euros from its Disaster Relief Fund to the fight against Ebola in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The Finnish Red Cross is also supporting the Burundi Red Cross in preparing for the spread of Ebola. The Burundi Red Cross has activated its network of volunteers for monitoring and warning activities.
Disaster Relief Fund enables rapid assistance around the world
With the funds already collected in the Finnish Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund, the Red Cross is able to offer aid quickly when the need arises in the event of a sudden epidemic, natural disaster, or conflict, for example.
The money collected in the Disaster Relief Fund is not earmarked in advance; instead, it is used to support operations in places where help is needed the most. The funds donated to the Disaster Relief Fund are also used to offer aid in Finland.
