Kathmandu— The Ebola virus continues to spread exponentially in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), with over 2,500 deaths reported as of this week, according to the United Nations. The outbreak, which began in May, is growing faster and wider due to ongoing conflict, limited government control, infrastructure deficiencies, and attacks on health workers and facilities. UN Senior Ebola Coordinator Julien Harneis has issued a warning that existing funds will soon be depleted, hindering efforts to contain the epidemic and raising concerns about potential spread to neighboring countries.

Escalating Crisis

The DRC’s Ebola outbreak is now considered increasingly difficult to control. The UN reports the virus is spreading at an accelerating rate, with more than 2,500 fatalities confirmed. Harneis emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that the epidemic is expanding both in geographic scope and transmission speed.

Challenges Facing Response Efforts

Efforts to contain the outbreak have been significantly hampered by a complex web of challenges. The eastern DRC faces ongoing conflict and lacks adequate government control and infrastructure, disrupting health initiatives. Health workers and facilities have faced over 260 attacks in the past six months, resulting in eight deaths and more than 160 illnesses among healthcare personnel, with 43 succumbing to the virus. Locals, fueled by conspiracy theories and frustration over burial restrictions, have also contributed to the difficulties.

Resource Constraints and Vaccine Limitations

Funding shortages pose a critical threat to sustaining the response. The current pool of funds is projected to run out within weeks, potentially crippling essential programs. Furthermore, the lack of a vaccine for the rare Bundibugyo strain of Ebola complicates matters, as existing vaccines are not effective against this variant. This adds another layer of difficulty to controlling the outbreak and protecting vulnerable populations.

The UN is urging increased staffing and resources to reach remote areas and prevent further spread, warning that without a ramped-up response, the epidemic could extend beyond DRC’s borders.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.