The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has claimed 600 lives, according to the latest figures released by the World Health Organisation (WHO).
The updated data, provided by Congolese health authorities, shows that 1,759 confirmed Ebola cases have been recorded since the outbreak was declared in mid-May, with the virus maintaining a case fatality rate of about 34 per cent.
The WHO said 285 patients have recovered, while 304 suspected cases are still being investigated.
The outbreak has also spread beyond the DRC, with neighbouring Uganda confirming 20 cases and two deaths. Ugandan health officials reported that 17 patients have recovered.
Although infections have been recorded in four provinces in northeastern Congo, Ituri Province remains the centre of the outbreak.
Health authorities said the outbreak is being driven by the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus, a rare variant for which there are currently no approved vaccines or licensed treatments.
To strengthen the response, officials launched a clinical trial on July 2 to evaluate two potential treatment options. The study is examining the effectiveness of the monoclonal antibody MBP134 and the antiviral drug remdesivir, both separately and in combination.
Ebola is a highly contagious viral disease that spreads through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected individuals or contaminated materials.
The Democratic Republic of Congo declared its 17th Ebola outbreak on May 15 after several deaths were reported in the conflict-affected Ituri Province, a region that has experienced years of insecurity and humanitarian challenges.
