The World Health Organisation says nearly 2,000 people have died from an Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo, with infections continuing to rise.

Speaking at a press conference in Bunia, eastern DR Congo, the epicentre of the outbreak, WHO Africa Regional Director Mohamed Yakub Janabi said the situation had deteriorated significantly over the past three months.

Janabi said about 4,000 people had been affected by the virus, while the death toll was approaching 2,000.

He described the situation as concerning and called for continued efforts to contain the outbreak.

The Ebola epidemic has placed significant pressure on health services in eastern DR Congo, where health workers are battling to trace infections, provide treatment and prevent further transmission.

The WHO and local health authorities continue to coordinate the response, including surveillance, case management and community engagement.

Ebola is a highly infectious viral disease that can cause severe illness and death. It spreads through direct contact with the blood or bodily fluids of infected people or contaminated materials.

Health authorities have urged residents to follow prevention measures and report suspected cases promptly as efforts continue to bring the outbreak under control.