The Burundian Ministry of Public Health formally denied rumors of an Ebola case at Prince Regent Charles Hospital on 16 October. Officials addressed public concerns following reports circulating regarding the facility. Dr Fidèle Nkezabahizi emphasized the government's stance on the accuracy of health information during the briefing. "Face à Ebola, la vigilance est nécessaire, mais la désinformation ne protège personne," Dr Nkezabahizi stated. The ministry maintains that no cases have been confirmed within the country. Authorities continue to monitor the situation to ensure public safety and to prevent the spread of unverified claims.
Negative Test Results Confirmed
Fidèle Nkezabahizi, Minister of Public Health, provided an update regarding the diagnostic procedures conducted at the medical facility. A patient suspected of having Ebola at Prince Regent Charles Hospital was subject to rigorous diagnostic evaluation to determine their health status. "A l’hôpital Prince Régent Charles, une personne suspectée d’être atteinte de cette maladie a été testée et les résultats se sont révélés négatifs, confirmant l’absence d’Ebola et d’autres fièvres hémorragiques virales chez la personne examinée," the minister stated. These findings clarify the health status of the individual previously placed under observation at the hospital. The negative test result confirms that the patient does not have the virus or other viral hemorrhagic fevers.
Collaborative efforts to address potential health risks occurred earlier in the month. On 8 October 2026, the Government of Burundi and the United Nations Country Team held a joint meeting to discuss humanitarian situations and Ebola preparedness. During this session, officials evaluated current strategies for managing potential viral threats. The meeting served as a platform for the Government of Burundi and the United Nations Country Team to align their efforts regarding public health safety. Dr Nkezabahizi noted the focus of these discussions regarding regional security. "A cette occasion, nous avons présenté la menace liée à Ebola et souligné l’importance de renforcer notre préparation et nos capacités de riposte face au risque d’introduction du virus dans la sous-région," he said.
Proactive health monitoring remains a priority for the Ministry of Public Health despite the negative test results. Officials stated that the current situation does not permit a reduction in alertness. The Ministry of Public Health maintains that the absence of confirmed cases does not mean Burundi is immune to the disease. Dr Nkezabahizi explained the ministry’s perspective on the ongoing risk, saying, "L’absence de cas d’Ebola ne signifie pas que le Burundi est à l’abri de la maladie. Il faut toujours renforcer la surveillance de cette dernière." The ministry continues to coordinate with relevant partners to maintain oversight of public health conditions and ensure that surveillance protocols are strictly followed across the country to mitigate future risks.