Congo Reports 2,011 Ebola Cases and 754 Deaths; 366 Recoveries Recorded

Confirmed cases of Ebola in Congo reached 2,011, including 754 deaths, according to government data released overnight. A total of 753 people remain in isolation or in hospitals, while 366 have recovered. Contact tracing coverage of exposed individuals stands at 67%.

The outbreak, caused by the Bundibugyo virus, began on May 15. At least 80% of new cases are emerging from unknown chains of transmission, the World Health Organization said Tuesday. Health authorities have not identified the patient zero.

Armed conflict displacements and mining-related movements have hindered contact tracing. Many deaths occurred in communities without patients reaching health facilities, Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, the WHO health emergencies chief, said Tuesday after returning from Bunia in Ituri province.

Health workers at Ebola treatment centers in Ituri have gone on strike over unpaid salaries and bonuses. Enrollment for a study of two possible treatments for the Bundibugyo virus began recently in the province.