The spread of Ebola in Africa is so wide that it could reach the UK and other countries, one of Africa's top health officials warns, according to The Guardian.

The outbreak has passed 10,000 cases, with nearly 5,000 deaths, according to Congo's health ministry figures reported by UN News. Dr. Jean Kaseya, who leads the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, compared it to the early days of Covid.

"We want all countries to know that they are not safe if they don't take appropriate measures," he said. "We don't want to see the UK and other countries become the hotspot."

Kaseya said it is the first time three African regions have been hit by Ebola. The Democratic Republic of the Congo declared the outbreak in Ituri province on May 15, though tests show it began in February. It has since spread to Kenya and Uganda. Last week, Nigeria confirmed a case in Abuja in a woman who had arrived from Uganda. France is the only country outside Africa with a confirmed case, a doctor who returned from Congo in June.

Congo's health ministry counted 10,141 cases and nearly 5,000 deaths as of Monday, UN News reports, citing the World Health Organization. Kenya has recorded two deaths, UN News reports. It is Congo's largest and deadliest Ebola outbreak.

This outbreak is caused by the Bundibugyo virus, which has no approved treatment. Vaccine trials are under way, with results expected in three to six months. Ebola spreads through contact with the body fluids of sick people or the dead.

The response has been slowed by a lack of protective gear, unpaid health workers, conflict and aid cuts. Kaseya said governments have pledged $3 billion, but more than $2 billion has not arrived. He wants screening at borders.

What we know: Africa's top disease official says the outbreak has passed 10,000 cases and countries outside Africa must prepare.
What we don't: Only The Guardian has reported this so far. NewsHabit hasn't seen independent confirmation.