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Congo's Ebola deaths top 5,000 as fear of continent-wide spread mounts
World News
AP

Congo's Ebola deaths top 5,000 as fear of continent-wide spread mounts

  • By OPE ADETAYO and CONSTANT SAME BAGALWA - Associated Press
  • Updated

Deaths in Congo's Ebola outbreak have topped 5,000 as the disease spreads relentlessly. Data from the Congolese Ministry of Health shows the virus has killed 5,026 out of 10,351 infected, with a nearly 50% lethality rate. The outbreak, caused by the Bundibugyo virus, was declared in mid-May and has become the second deadliest in history. Experts are concerned about the authorities' ability to contain the virus, which has spread to 67 health zones in eight provinces. The outbreak is concentrated in the eastern region of Congo, where conflict and disbelief among the population hinder containment efforts.

Congo’s Ebola outbreak tops 10,000 cases as authorities race to slow the spread in African countries
National News
AP

Congo’s Ebola outbreak tops 10,000 cases as authorities race to slow the spread in African countries

  • By CHINEDU ASADU AND CONSTANT SAME BAGALWA - Associated Press
  • Updated

Congo’s fast-moving Ebola outbreak has topped 10,000 confirmed cases as authorities race to slow the spread across Africa. Data from Congo's Ministry of Health on Tuesday showed there have been a total of 10,060 confirmed cases, nearly half of whom have died. It is the fastest-growing Ebola outbreak in history and was declared in May. It is caused by the rare Bundibugyo virus, for which there is no approved vaccine or treatment. Response teams are battling armed conflict, poor roads and violence from residents fueled by mistrust and misinformation. It has spread farther across Africa than any previous Ebola outbreak, reaching three regions with cases recorded in Kenya and Nigeria as well.