The Democratic Republic of Congo is facing the fastest-spreading Ebola outbreak on record, with confirmed deaths reaching 2,011. A total of 4,381 cases have been confirmed across five provinces, primarily hitting the conflict-plagued eastern and northeastern regions.
Health officials report that this outbreak is spreading almost three times faster than the 2014-16 West Africa outbreak, which was the deadliest in history. The WHO chief has warned that the current crisis could eclipse the West Africa outbreak if it continues at its current pace.
While the outbreak was officially declared on May 15, health experts and WHO officials believe it began months earlier than reported and may have been transmitted from animals to humans. This particular outbreak is caused by the rare Bundibugyo virus, for which there are no approved vaccines or treatments.
Health authorities are currently struggling to get help to remote localities. Efforts to stem the outbreak are being hindered by rebel conflict, bad roads, and work stoppages over payment issues.