Pope calls for more efforts to stop Ebola in DR Congo

Vatican City (AFP)

Pope Leo XIV called on the international community on Sunday to help contain the Ebola virus in the Democratic Republic of Congo, which health officials warn is spreading exponentially.

"In my prayers I often remember the Democratic Republic of the Congo, especially because of the spread of the Ebola epidemic, which unfortunately is causing many victims," said the pope following his Angelus prayer in St Peter's Square.

"I encourage a response from the international community that also involves local communities in efforts to save many human lives," added the pope, who visited Africa in April.

The deadliest Ebola outbreak in the DRC's history has already killed thousands of people, hitting regions in the north and east where the presence of the state is weak and health infrastructure is largely lacking.