Ebola Outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo Reaches Critical Threshold

The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo continues to grow. According to the country's health ministry, 1003 people have been infected and 254 have died since the outbreak was declared on May 15. At least 100 people have recovered, while more than 365 are being held in hospitals or isolation. The Ituri province is the epicenter of the outbreak. Authorities have stated that there is no approved vaccine or specific treatment for the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus. Violence and mass displacement are hindering efforts to combat the outbreak. The Kigonze camp for displaced people is home to over 20,000 individuals and reported 10 unexplained deaths last week. Authorities have not confirmed a link between these deaths and Ebola. It is believed that the outbreak may not have reached its peak and that undetected cases may exist.