Introduction
The 2025 Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak in the Bulape Health District (HD) of Kasai Province, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), highlighted the persistent vulnerability of regions with a history of recurrent epidemics. Bulape, located in the Mweka territory, had previously faced Ebola outbreaks in 2007 and 2008, making it a critical setting for evaluating response preparedness and resilience. This outbreak was addressed using the Incident Management System (IMS) model, a structured and evidence-based framework designed to coordinate multisectoral responses. The IMS approach integrates leadership, coordination, and accountability, ensuring that outbreak control measures are timely, adaptive, and context-specific. This study introduces the application of the IMS model in Bulape HD and sets the foundation for analyzing its effectiveness through seven core strategies.
Epidemiological Investigation and Surveillance
A thorough investigation was the cornerstone of the IMS response, enabling rapid case detection, contact tracing, and confirmation of Ebola transmission chains. Surveillance systems were strengthened through active case finding, community alerts, and laboratory confirmation. Data collection was supported by both literature review and field interviews, allowing for triangulation of evidence. The use of atlas.ti 22 software facilitated qualitative data analysis, helping researchers identify patterns in transmission dynamics and response gaps. Early detection and systematic investigation significantly reduced delays in intervention and informed targeted control measures.
Infection Prevention and Control in Communities
Strengthening infection prevention and control (IPC) measures at the community level was essential in limiting Ebola spread. Interventions included promoting safe burial practices, improving hygiene behaviors, and reinforcing protective measures in households and public spaces. However, IPC efforts faced challenges due to limited infrastructure, fragile health systems, and deeply rooted traditional practices. Addressing these barriers required culturally sensitive approaches and collaboration with local leaders. By integrating IPC strategies within the existing health system and community structures, adherence to preventive measures gradually improved.
Clinical Management and Professional Medical Care
Ensuring that medical care was delivered by experienced and trained professionals significantly improved patient outcomes. Specialized Ebola treatment units were supported by skilled healthcare workers familiar with EVD case management, infection control, and psychosocial support. Despite widespread distrust in formal healthcare services, consistent quality care helped rebuild confidence among affected communities. Clinical management strategies also emphasized healthcare worker safety, reducing nosocomial transmission and ensuring workforce sustainability during the outbreak.
Risk Communication, Community Engagement, and Vaccination
Risk communication and community engagement (RCCE) emerged as the most critical pillar of IMS implementation. Transparent communication, dialogue with community leaders, and respect for local beliefs were central to overcoming resistance and misinformation. RCCE efforts facilitated acceptance of ring vaccination strategies, which targeted contacts and contacts of contacts to interrupt transmission. Community involvement not only enhanced vaccine uptake but also strengthened trust in public health interventions, making response activities more effective and sustainable.
Operational Research and Health System Integration
Operational research played a vital role in adapting interventions to the local context and improving response efficiency. Continuous learning from field data allowed responders to refine strategies in real time. Anchoring IMS interventions within the existing health system ensured continuity of essential services while addressing Ebola-specific needs. The alignment and support of technical and financial partners (TFPs) provided critical resources and coordination. Lessons learned from this outbreak offer valuable insights for future Ebola responses in the DRC and for managing similar epidemics in other low-resource settings.
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#EbolaResearch, #IncidentManagementSystem, #EbolaResponseDRC, #PublicHealthResearch, #OutbreakManagement, #InfectiousDiseaseControl, #EpidemicPreparedness, #HealthSystemsStrengthening, #RiskCommunication, #CommunityEngagement, #RingVaccination, #OperationalResearch, #InfectionPrevention, #EbolaLessonsLearned, #GlobalHealthResearch, #FieldEpidemiology, #HealthEmergencyResponse, #DRCHealth, #ViralOutbreaks, #Ebola2025
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