Ebola spreads exponentially in Congo as death toll tops 2,500, says UN

The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo has claimed over 2,500 lives, according to the UN's senior Ebola coordinator, Julien Harneis. The epidemic, which is spreading rapidly and covering an area larger than France, has now surpassed the previous worst outbreak in the country's history. Harneis called for increased aid, warning that the existing pool of funds will be depleted within weeks.

Healthcare workers in the affected region are facing multiple threats, including attacks by locals and their own illness from the disease. The Ebola outbreak is a 17th epidemic in Congo and the most severe in terms of cases. It is caused by the Bundibugyo species of Ebola, which lacks approved vaccines or treatments. Fear has translated into angry young men attacking healthcare workers and ambulances, stoning them and burning them.

Aid workers have also reported conspiracy theories among locals, who believe the outbreak is a hoax, leading to hostility towards health restrictions. Over 260 attacks on health workers have been reported in the past six months, resulting in the deaths of eight healthcare workers. The outbreak's growth is being exacerbated by three decades of conflict and immense humanitarian needs.