At least 79 people have died from an unknown disease causing flu-like symptoms in the south-western region of the Democratic Republic of Congo, according to the health ministry. The majority of those who have died are aged between 15 and 18. Over 300 people have been infected, with symptoms including fever, headaches, runny noses, coughs, breathing difficulties, and anemia.
Response teams have been dispatched to Kwango Province, particularly the Panzi health zone, where the disease is most prevalent, to manage the outbreak and investigate its cause. Civil society leader Cephorien Manzanza expressed concern about the increasing number of cases, highlighting the challenges of limited medicine supplies in the rural area.
A World Health Organization (WHO) official confirmed that a team has been sent to the remote area to collect samples for laboratory analysis. Authorities have urged the public to stay calm and take precautions, such as washing hands with soap, avoiding large gatherings, and refraining from handling the bodies of the deceased without proper health personnel.
A local MP reported that between 10 and 26 November, 67 people fell ill and died, with Panzi hospital struggling to cope due to a shortage of medicines. The MP called for urgent assistance. The DRC is also grappling with a significant outbreak of mpox, having recorded about 14,500 cases between January and July this year, in addition to previous Ebola outbreaks.
The ongoing health crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo highlights the challenges faced by the country’s healthcare system, particularly in remote areas. The limited access to medical supplies and healthcare facilities in rural regions like Panzi exacerbates the situation, making it difficult to contain the spread of the unknown disease.
Health experts are closely monitoring the situation, and the investigation into the disease’s cause is a priority. Although the symptoms resemble those of flu, the lack of clarity regarding its origin has raised concerns among both local and international health authorities. The WHO’s involvement in collecting samples and conducting laboratory tests is crucial to identifying the disease and developing an appropriate response strategy.
In addition to the health challenges, the DRC has faced ongoing issues with outbreaks of infectious diseases like Ebola and mpox, further straining the country’s already limited resources. The government, in collaboration with international health organizations, is working to improve the situation by increasing medical support and resources to the affected areas.
Local authorities continue to urge residents to adhere to health guidelines to reduce the spread of the disease. This includes avoiding close contact with the sick, practicing good hygiene, and reporting any new cases to health authorities promptly. The situation remains fluid, and the international community’s support is critical to help the DRC manage this and future health crises.
