Ebola Death Toll Reaches 600 in DRC, WHO Reports

The World Health Organization reported that the Ebola death toll in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has reached 600, with the latest figures released on Thursday indicating a significant increase in fatalities. The outbreak, which was declared on May 15, has seen a total of 1,759 confirmed cases.

The Congolese health authorities have documented that the outbreak has spread beyond DRC, with Uganda reporting two deaths and 20 confirmed cases, of which 17 patients have recovered. The current case fatality rate in DRC stands at 34%, with 285 patients having recovered and 304 suspected cases still under investigation.

The outbreak is primarily affecting four provinces, with Ituri Province being the epicenter. This outbreak is caused by the rare Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus.

As there are no approved vaccines or licensed treatments available, health authorities initiated clinical trials on July 2 to evaluate two potential therapies, including monoclonal antibodies and the antiviral drug remdesivir.