Congo’s Ebola Deaths Top 5,000

BUNIA, Congo (AP) — Deaths in Congo’s Ebola outbreak have topped 5,000 as the disease spreads relentlessly. Data from the Congolese Ministry of Health shows the virus has killed 5,026 out of 10,351 infected, with a nearly 50% lethality rate. The outbreak, caused by the Bundibugyo virus, was declared in mid-May and has become the second deadliest in history. Experts are concerned about the authorities’ ability to contain the virus, which has spread to 67 health zones in eight provinces. The outbreak is concentrated in the eastern region of Congo, where conflict and disbelief among the population hinder containment efforts.