Ebola Outbreak Becomes Fastest Growing On Record

Authorities in the Democratic Republic of Congo are battling one of the fastest growing Ebola outbreaks in the history of the virus.

Health officials say more than 3,300 confirmed cases have been recorded across five provinces in the eastern part of the country, with nearly 1,500 deaths reported.

The outbreak, which was declared in may, involves the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, for which there is currently no standard treatment.

Health workers say the response has been challenged by ongoing conflict, insecurity and high population density in affected areas.

Clinical trials for a vaccine against the strain began earlier this month, as authorities work to contain the spread of the virus.