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The nurse in DR Congo battling Ebola

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Marcus Loika
July 24, 2026

At the heart of eastern DR Congo's latest Ebola outbreak, nurse Grace Kakure watched five coworkers die after contracting the virus at work. Despite fear, grief and months without pay, she continues caring for patients.

In Mongbwalu, the epicenter of the Ebola outbreak in Ituri province, DRC, nurse Grace Kakure and her colleagues continue treating patients despite major challenges. She recalls how the outbreak was declared late, leaving healthcare workers exposed and under-equipped. Five of her colleagues died after contracting Ebola at work. Fear of the disease also kept many patients away from the hospital. With around 20 medical workers dead in Ituri, staff are calling for hazard pay and greater government support while remaining committed to serving their community.

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