The number of confirmed Ebola cases in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has risen to 3,532, with 1,556 confirmed deaths, according to the latest figures released Friday by the country's public health authorities.
The epidemic has now spread across five eastern provinces: Ituri, North Kivu, South Kivu, Haut-Uele and Tshopo. Currently, 807 patients remain in isolation or under hospital care, while 626 individuals have recovered.
Speaking at a weekly press briefing Thursday, Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) Director-General Jean Kaseya described the outbreak as the fastest-growing Ebola outbreak ever recorded.
Kaseya said the epidemic could not yet be considered under control, noting that more than 80 percent of new cases in Ituri, the epicenter, lack identified links to known contacts. More than 60 percent of deaths were occurring within communities rather than at Ebola treatment centers.
The DRC government declared the outbreak on May 15.
Ebola cases top 3,500 in DR Congo as Africa CDC warns of uncontrolled outbreak
As China continues to refine its inbound policies for foreign travelers, a growing number of visitors from Germany are expected to arrive in the coming months, according to German tourism business.
Aside from classic scenic spots, immersive experiences rooted in Chinese culture become a major draw for German tourists.
German photographer Eden went to to Beijing in 2012. This year, he plans to revisit the Chinese capital and also tour Shanghai, in order to understand Chinese culture better.
"I wish to meet local cultural and artistic figures, such as photographers, fashion designers and artists, and have chances to chat with them," said Eden.
As for German sinologist Heinrich Geiger, he has been to China multiple times. He believed that calligraphy, Chinese paintings and cooking can all be attractions for foreigners to know better about China.
"I prefer stay in one or two places rather than travel around too many areas. In that way, I can get along with the locals and learn some traditional Chinese crafts," said Geiger.
German business insiders noted that China's visa-free policy for foreign travelers, and easier access to tour services are fueling larger travel demand among German tourists.
"I believe there will be about 500,000 to 600,000 German tourists traveling to China for vacation this year," said Bohland, general manager of a German tour operator.
More Germans developing interest in traveling across China for vacation
