BUNIA, DR Congo – The Democratic Republic of Congo's Ebola outbreak has surpassed 11,000 infections, with health authorities reporting 5,387 deaths as efforts to contain the disease continue.

The latest figures released by the Congolese Health Ministry on Wednesday show that 11,042 people have been infected with the Bundibugyo virus, making this the deadliest Ebola outbreak in the country's history.

The outbreak, which was declared in mid-May, has spread to eight of the country's 26 provinces. The scale of the crisis has raised concern among health authorities, particularly because nearly half of the reported infections have resulted in death.

The response has been complicated by insecurity, poor road networks, pressure on the health system and mistrust among some communities.

Violence in parts of Ituri and North Kivu has also restricted access for medical teams attempting to reach affected populations. Health workers have faced attacks, while misinformation has contributed to resistance against disease-control efforts.

The Bundibugyo virus responsible for the outbreak has no approved vaccine or specific treatment, making early detection, isolation and supportive medical care particularly important.

The crisis has also affected neighbouring countries, including Uganda, Kenya and Nigeria, prompting wider regional surveillance and public health measures.

Health authorities continue to call for improved access to affected communities and stronger cooperation to prevent further transmission