At least 930 people have died in Congo's Ebola outbreak, according to the country's Ministry of Health. These deaths were recorded out of 2,344 confirmed cases as of Saturday, with 37 new deaths occurring in the previous 24 hours, marking one of the highest single-day totals.
Declared in eastern Congo on May 15, this is the fastest-growing Ebola outbreak on record. The outbreak is caused by the Bundibugyo virus, which is less common than other viruses that cause Ebola disease and currently has no approved vaccine or treatment.
The response effort in the worst-affected province of Ituri has been restricted by safety fears. Authorities reported at least 12 attacks against health facilities and teams since the outbreak began in mid-May. Additionally, many health workers have walked off their jobs to protest a lack of payment.
The virus has claimed the lives of at least 36 health workers. The health ministry stated that 724 patients are currently in hospitals and isolation, and that response efforts are being intensified in affected health zones.