Health experts have warned that the world is seeing just the 'tip of the iceberg' as the deadly Ebola outbreak spreads in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Meanwhile, India and the African Union have postponed a scheduled summit due to the health emergency.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the outbreak, the 17th in the DRC, a 'public health emergency of international concern.' So far, around 600 suspected cases have been reported, with over 130 deaths. However, experts say the actual numbers are much higher.

Jane Halton, chair of the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), said: 'I have described this outbreak as being like an iceberg. We've seen the top of the iceberg. The top, as we get closer to it, is pretty large.' She added that the true number of cases is 'much bigger.'

Unlike the Zaire strain, there are no known vaccines for the Bundibugyo strain, which was previously less lethal. Halton noted that vaccine developers are in a 'very difficult position.'

The M23 rebel group confirmed a new case in South Kivu province, hundreds of kilometers south of the epicenter. The victim, a 28-year-old, died and was 'buried safely.' Another suspected case has been isolated.

Access to affected areas is hampered by ongoing violence and cuts to international aid.

India's Foreign Ministry announced the postponement of the India-Africa Summit, originally scheduled for May 28-31. Delhi's airport issued health advisories for passengers from DRC, South Sudan, and Uganda.

Over the past 50 years, more than 15,000 people have died from Ebola in Africa.

Source: www.dw.com