The Democratic Republic of Congo DR Congo has recorded more than 9,000 cases and over 4,000 deaths in what health authorities have described as the country’s worst-ever Ebola outbreak. Health officials disclosed the figures on Tuesday, as efforts to contain the deadly virus continue amid challenges posed by limited healthcare resources, armed groups and distrust among local communities. The outbreak was officially declared in mid-May, although health experts believe the virus may have been circulating for weeks or even months before it was detected. The country’s 17th Ebola outbreak began in Ituri province in northeastern DR Congo before spreading to seven provinces across the northern and eastern parts of the country. The response has been hampered by inadequate medical resources and insecurity linked to the presence of armed groups in affected areas. Healthcare workers and humanitarian personnel have also faced resistance and mistrust from some local communities. The current outbreak is caused by the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus, for which there is no approved vaccine or specific treatment. However, the World Health Organization WHO announced on Tuesday that a clinical trial for a vaccine targeting the strain is expected to begin in DR Congo this month.