Experimental vaccinations to begin in DRC

Health workers in the Democratic Republic of Congo are to begin an immunisation campaign in an attempt to halt the spread of the deadly Ebola virus.

The experimental vaccine proved effective when used in limited trials during the epidemic which struck West Africa in 2014-16.

At least 25 people are believed to have died in the current outbreak. Health workers will be among the first to receive the vaccine on Monday.

The country has been struck by an Ebola outbreak as they also descend further into political turmoil. 

At least 45 cases of Ebola have been reported, including three health workers, since the outbreak began earlier this month.

The virus has already spread from rural areas to the north-western city of Mbandaka, a major transport hub on the River Congo, where at least four cases have been confirmed.

This has sparked fears that the outbreak could reach the capital, Kinshasa, as well as neighbouring countries.

However, the World Health Organization (WHO) has said it has "strong reason to believe that the outbreak can be brought under control".