A new strain of the Ebola virus has been reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, prompting warnings from aid groups and healthcare workers.

The fragile healthcare system in the country is struggling to cope with the outbreak, which has seen nearly 750 suspected cases and 177 suspected deaths recorded since April 24.

The virus is spreading rapidly, with experts citing cultural norms around burials and touch as contributing factors to its spread.

Aid groups are calling for coordinated international action to stem the outbreak.