The number of confirmed Ebola cases in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has surpassed 8,000, with 3,901 deaths recorded in the ongoing outbreak, according to government health data released on Monday.
The outbreak, caused by the Bundibugyo species of the Ebola virus, has become the largest and deadliest Ebola epidemic recorded in the DRC, according to the health authorities.
There are currently no approved vaccines or treatments specifically for the Bundibugyo species. However, the World Health Organisation (WHO) said earlier this month that clinical trials for three potential vaccines could begin by October or November.
The DRC, with support from the WHO and Doctors Without Borders, also launched a trial vaccination programme this month to assess whether vaccines developed for another Ebola species could offer protection against the current strain.
The worsening outbreak has prompted additional international support, with several partners announcing new funding for the DRC on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York last week.
The European Union on Saturday announced a €7.5 million aid package to support the country’s response to the Ebola outbreak.
In a statement, the European Commission said the funding would also help strengthen long-term preparedness, response capabilities and health surveillance.
The latest funding forms part of a broader €710 million EU commitment aimed at supporting displaced people across Africa and responding to humanitarian crises globally.
The United States also announced an additional $267 million on Wednesday to support efforts to contain the Ebola outbreak.
The increased international funding comes as health authorities and humanitarian organisations intensify efforts to contain the spread of the virus and strengthen medical surveillance and response capacity across affected areas.
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