The Democratic Republic of Congo is grappling with an Ebola outbreak that the Africa CDC warns is spreading at an unprecedented pace. Confirmed cases have climbed to nearly 600, and confirmed deaths have reached 101.
The outbreak, involving the Bundibugyo strain, was announced on May 15, although officials have since stated it went undetected for weeks. This is the 17th Ebola outbreak in the country since the virus was first identified in 1976.
The virus is gripping three provinces long beset by armed conflict. In the conflict-hit east, health officials are struggling to trace exposed contacts and keep patients in care, while the presence of armed groups continues to hinder the response in the hardest-hit province.
In response to the crisis, efforts are being made to raise awareness within the local population about the importance of safety measures.