WHO has dispatched a health team to the DRC to investigate a deadly unidentified disease that has claimed at least 79 lives and affected nearly 400 individuals since late October. Symptoms resemble flu-like conditions, primarily affecting children and women. Health authorities are on high alert as they work to contain the outbreak and determine the disease’s origin.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has deployed a health team to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to investigate an outbreak of an unidentified disease that has resulted in at least 79 fatalities since October. In total, approximately 376 cases of this illness have been recorded, primarily affecting individuals in the Kwango province, particularly the Panzi health zone, with several fatalities categorized as children over the age of 15. The symptoms exhibited include fever, headaches, nasal discharge, cough, and respiratory difficulties, alongside reports of anemia.
Local health officials have indicated that the actual death toll may be as high as 143, with a notable number of victims appearing to be women and children. Responding to the situation, WHO spokesperson Tarik Jašarević confirmed the agency’s awareness of the outbreak and their collaboration with national health authorities. He stated, “WHO is aware of an unidentified disease and is working with the national authorities to understand the situation. We have dispatched a team to the remote area to collect samples for lab investigations.”
Authorities are urging residents to remain cautious by reporting any unusual symptoms or deaths, maintaining hygiene practices, and refraining from handling corpses without proper health personnel. The DRC has experienced numerous health crises historically, including significant Ebola outbreaks that have claimed thousands of lives. Recently, neighboring countries have faced their own health challenges, including a major outbreak of Marburg Virus Disease in Rwanda.
As of now, the timing for obtaining laboratory test results remains uncertain, as indicated by the WHO representative who stated, “I do not know that.” The situation continues to evolve as health officials and WHO work diligently to contain the outbreak and ensure public safety.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has a long-standing history of public health challenges, including recurring outbreaks of viral diseases such as Ebola. The country has been particularly vulnerable due to its healthcare infrastructure and frequent contact with zoonotic diseases. In late October, an unidentified disease emerged in the Kwango province, prompting significant concern as local health systems have been strained by previous epidemics. The WHO’s intervention is crucial in addressing this emerging health crisis and implementing measures to prevent further casualties. The healthcare community is on high alert, given the possibility of new outbreaks in a region that has witnessed severe epidemics of both Ebola and Marburg Virus Disease recently.
In summary, the emergence of an unidentified disease in the Democratic Republic of Congo poses significant public health concerns, particularly following the reported deaths of 79 individuals and nearly 400 cases. The WHO’s involvement is essential in identifying the pathogen responsible and subsequently mitigating the outbreak. Local health officials, alongside international support, are urging the community to remain vigilant and adhere to health guidelines whereas the situation continues to develop.
Original Source: bnonews.com
