The deadly Bundibugyo virus outbreak has spread across six provinces in the Democratic Republic of Congo, with thousands of confirmed cases recorded as health authorities face growing challenges in containing the disease.

The death toll from an Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has risen to 3,267 since May 15, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

The WHO said in its latest situation report that the outbreak, caused by the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus, continues to spread across the country, with health authorities facing increasing difficulties in containing transmission.

Outbreak expands across six provinces

According to the WHO report, the outbreak has reached the Kayna health zone in North Kivu province, bringing the total number of affected health zones to 61 across six provinces.

The affected provinces include Bas-Uélé, Haut-Uélé, Ituri, North Kivu, South Kivu and Tshopo.

The WHO said the DRC has recorded 6,757 confirmed Ebola cases, of which 3,267 have resulted in deaths. The case fatality rate stands at 48.3 percent.

Ituri province remains the epicenter of the outbreak, while continued transmission has also been reported in North Kivu and other affected areas.

Response efforts face major challenges

Health authorities and international organizations continue efforts to contain the outbreak through surveillance, contact tracing, medical care and community outreach.

However, the response has been complicated by shortages of trained healthcare personnel, funding difficulties, insecurity in some affected areas and challenges in reaching vulnerable communities.

The WHO has warned that delayed detection of cases and limited access to early treatment increase the risk of further transmission within households, communities and healthcare facilities.

One of DRC's largest Ebola outbreaks

The current outbreak, caused by the Bundibugyo virus, has become the largest Ebola outbreak recorded in the DRC. The disease has previously caused repeated health crises in the country, where conflict, population displacement and limited healthcare access have complicated containment efforts.

The WHO continues to support Congolese health authorities by strengthening surveillance systems, improving treatment capacity and coordinating international assistance to limit further spread of the virus.(ILKHA)