Ebola outbreak in Congo and Uganda surges 38% in a week, death toll exceeds 200

The Africa CDC reported that the Ebola outbreak affecting eastern Congo and Uganda has now resulted in more than 200 deaths within its first month.

Confirmed cases have risen to 894 across 32 health zones, marking a 38% increase from the previous week and making this the worst recorded outbreak at this stage.

The virus involved is the rare Bundibugyo strain, for which no approved vaccines or treatments exist, although experimental monoclonal antibody therapies are under development.

To date, 74 patients have recovered, and authorities are tracking up to 35,000 suspected contacts as they work to contain the spread.