The virus outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo has infected 8,067 people and killed 3,901, the government said on Monday. The outbreak was declared on May 15 and involves the Bundibugyo strain.

In Butembo, senior ruling-party member Marie-Celestin Karondwa was beaten to death by local residents. He belonged to the UDPS, the party of President Felix Tshisekedi. The killing shows the anger in towns hit by the virus.

On September 26, armed men attacked a hand-washing checkpoint in Beni territory. At least one person was killed and several were wounded. Health workers have faced repeated attacks during the response.

The WHO said the outbreak has spread to 63 health zones across seven provinces. New zones include Bulu in Sud Ubangi and Dungu in Haut-Uele.

It is the country’s 17th outbreak of this virus. Health agencies warn that violence against response teams is slowing the containment effort.

The WHO has sent extra teams to the new zones. Vaccination drives are planned in the worst-hit areas. Officials urged residents to report symptoms early and avoid attacking health workers.