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The Hague • 27 October 2026
New guidance to support pharmacists and the pharmaceutical workforce in preparing for and responding to Ebola virus disease outbreaks and public health emergencies has been published by the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) today.
The FIP Ebola reference guide provides updated information on Ebola preparedness, prevention and response, complementing the World Health Organization’s guidance on filovirus diseases. It is intended for pharmacists working across community, hospital, primary care and public health emergency settings.
The updated guidance builds on FIP’s previous Ebola guidance, published following the 2014–2016 West African Ebola outbreak. It incorporates developments in understanding Ebola virus species, clinical management, vaccination options and strategies, infection prevention and control, surveillance and outbreak preparedness, and community engagement and public health response.
“Pharmacists are often among the most accessible healthcare professionals and can play an important role before, during and after an Ebola outbreak. Preparedness is not only about clinical response; it is also about ensuring that pharmacists and pharmacy teams are equipped to recognise potential cases, provide accurate information, support infection prevention and control, facilitate timely referral and maintain access to essential medicines and health services,” said Dr Catherine Duggan, chief executive officer, FIP.
The guidance highlights the contribution pharmacists can make to Ebola preparedness and response and provides practical recommendations on prevention and health promotion, early recognition and referral, infection prevention and control, medicines and vaccine management, public education, surveillance and public health collaboration, and workforce preparedness. These responsibilities vary according to the practice setting, national legislation and the local outbreak context.
The updated guidance reflects lessons from recent Ebola outbreaks, including the 2026 outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo. An appendix illustrates how the guidance may be adapted to a national context, drawing on recommendations by the National Council of FIP’s Member Organisation the Order of Pharmacists of the Democratic Republic of the Congo during the external review of the guidance.
The guidance stresses that pharmacists should remain informed about current outbreak situations, national guidance and referral pathways to ensure their contribution is aligned with the wider public health response.
Notes for editors
About FIP
The International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) is the global body representing over 5.5 million pharmacists, pharmacy educators and pharmaceutical scientists. We work to meet the world's healthcare needs. FIP is a non-governmental organisation that has been in official relations with the World Health Organization since 1948. www.fip.org
PRESS CONTACT
Ms Laila Ghorab
Communications manager
International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP)
Email laila@fip.org