Jean Kaseya, Director-General of Africa CDC, confirmed having a constructive discussion with France’s Health Minister, Stéphanie Rist, following the confirmation of an imported case of the Bundibugyo Ebola virus strain in French territory.

He welcomed France’s commitment that no travel restrictions will be imposed in connection with this case, emphasizing the importance of maintaining open channels for medical professionals and aid workers responding to outbreaks.

The patient, a Congolese humanitarian doctor who had participated in the Ebola response in Ituri on behalf of ALIMA, tested positive upon arrival in France, where he ordinarily resides. This marks the first confirmed case on French soil, as stated in a June 25 statement from the French Embassy in Kinshasa.

Kaseya assured that Africa CDC, the World Health Organization, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, and both French and Congolese authorities remain fully committed to containing the outbreak, protecting communities, and advancing a coordinated response across continental and global levels.