The Democratic Republic of Congo has recorded at least 930 deaths from its ongoing Ebola outbreak, according to the country’s Ministry of Health. The fatalities stem from 2,344 confirmed cases as of Saturday, with 37 new deaths reported in the preceding 24 hours—one of the highest single-day totals to date.
Fastest-Growing Ebola Outbreak on Record
The outbreak, declared on May 15 in eastern Congo, is now the fastest-growing Ebola epidemic in history. The responsible strain, the Bundibugyo virus, is less common than other Ebola variants, and no approved vaccine or treatment currently exists.
Challenges in Response Efforts
Safety concerns have hampered containment efforts in Ituri province, the worst-affected region. Authorities reported at least 12 attacks on health facilities and teams since mid-May. Additionally, many health workers have walked off the job to protest unpaid wages, with at least 36 infected workers having died from the virus.
The health ministry stated that 724 patients are currently isolated in hospitals and that response efforts are being intensified in affected health zones.
