Ebola Outbreak in Congo Tops 2,000 Cases

The World Health Organization warned that the Ebola virus is spreading across the Democratic Republic of the Congo faster than during any previous outbreak, with over 2,000 confirmed cases and nearly 800 deaths recorded in just two months.

Health officials say the rapid spread, the lack of an approved vaccine for the specific strain, and attacks on healthcare workers have hampered efforts to contain the virus.

In response, the United States has imposed entry restrictions on Americans returning from the epicentre, requiring a 21-day quarantine, while issuing its highest 'Do Not Travel' advisory for the country.

The outbreak is the fastest-growing on record, with unpaid health workers striking and a recent attack on a hospital forcing patients and responders to flee.