The death toll from the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo has risen to at least 438, while confirmed infections have surpassed 1,406, according to government figures released on Thursday.
Since the outbreak began in mid-May, the fatality rate has exceeded 31 percent.Nearly 200 patients have recovered, while more than 600 others remain under treatment.
The eastern provinces of Ituri, North Kivu and South Kivu remain the hardest hit.
The World Health Organization and the United Nations warned that the virus is spreading faster than authorities can contain it.
Ongoing conflict, pressure on healthcare facilities, population movement and difficulties in tracing contacts continue to hamper response efforts.