DRC Ebola death toll reaches 600, WHO reports

This comes shortly after the death toll exceeded 500. The WHO, using data from Congolese health authorities, indicates 1,759 confirmed Ebola cases since the outbreak was declared in mid-May. The outbreak has also affected Uganda, which has reported two deaths and 20 cases, with 17 patients recovering.

The case fatality rate in the DRC is approximately 34 percent. Additionally, 285 patients have recovered, and 304 suspected cases are under investigation. While four provinces in northeastern DRC are affected, Ituri Province remains the epicenter.

The current outbreak is caused by the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus, for which there are no approved vaccines or licensed treatments. A clinical trial was launched on July 2 to evaluate two potential therapies, the monoclonal antibody MBP134 and the antiviral drug remdesivir, individually and in combination. Ebola is a highly infectious viral disease spread through direct contact with bodily fluids of infected individuals or contaminated materials.

The DRC declared its 17th Ebola outbreak on May 15 following deaths in the conflict-affected Ituri Province.