Ebola Death Toll in DR Congo Surpasses 1,000 Amid Security Challenges

The Democratic Republic of Congo's public health institute said Wednesday that confirmed Ebola cases have risen to 2,536 and deaths have exceeded 1,000, reaching 1,033. The outbreak, the country's 17th, was declared in mid-May and is caused by the Bundibugyo strain, which can be fatal in up to 40% of infections and has no approved vaccine.

Health officials said the epidemic is centered in eastern Congo, an area plagued by armed groups and frequent attacks on clinics. Shortages of basic medical supplies and restrictions on burial practices have sparked anger among some relatives of victims, leading to accusations that the response is a hoax.

"The security situation and community mistrust are hampering our ability to reach patients and conduct safe burials," a spokesperson for the institute said.

The Bundibugyo strain differs from the more common Zaire strain in that no licensed vaccines or treatments exist. A limited number of experimental vaccines and therapeutics are under review, and researchers are evaluating whether existing Ebola drugs might be effective, though evidence is currently limited to animal studies.

The institute recorded 63 new cases and 34 deaths since its last update. The virus has crossed into neighboring Uganda, where authorities have confirmed 20 cases but reported no new infections since June 22. The last patient was discharged on July 16, starting a 42-day period after which Uganda could be declared free of Ebola.