Over 53 unexplained deaths have been reported in Basankusu, DRC since February 9, 2025, primarily affecting young males. Rapid symptom progression and predominant febrile illness further complicate the investigation. Initial tests ruled out Ebola and Marburg viruses, with potential causes including chemical poisoning or bacterial meningitis being explored. Surveillance efforts are ongoing, and the WHO has recommended enhanced monitoring and community engagement.
On February 9, 2025, health officials in the Democratic Republic of the Congo reported a concerning cluster of 24 unexplained deaths in a village within the Ekoto health area of Basankusu. By February 25, this number escalated to 53 fatalities, predominantly affecting adolescents and young adult males. Symptoms typically manifested rapidly, with an observed median time from symptom onset to death of one day. Preliminary investigations suggest possible causes include chemical poisoning or rapid bacterial meningitis, amid endemic malaria and other diseases in the region.
Enhanced surveillance has revealed that as of February 25, 1318 individuals exhibited symptoms aligning with a broad case definition of fever and one additional symptom. With approximately 50% of malaria tests returning positive, it indicates the prevalence of malaria and other febrile illnesses. Thus, the demographic profile of the deceased exhibits an atypical trend, usually characterized by elderly or young children mortality in endemic settings.
Initial laboratory results, released on February 13, negated the presence of Marburg and Ebola viruses. Ongoing investigations aim to gather more specimens for comprehensive testing, including toxicological analyses of environmental samples. The public health risk remains moderate locally, with national and global levels assessed as low given the confined nature of the event in Basankusu.
A rapid response team was dispatched to coordinate the assessment and aid in further investigations on February 16, supported by WHO assistance on February 23. Current endeavors focus on refining the epidemiological definitions and case identification to better manage the situation. Community engagement efforts are active, targeting health awareness and facilitating better disease surveillance practices.
WHO recommends improvements in clinical characterization and continued investigative efforts into environmental influences that may have precipitated this outbreak. The provision of adequate information to combat misinformation in the community is crucial to fostering awareness of symptoms and the importance of seeking medical attention without delay.
Lastly, operational hurdles related to the region’s remoteness complicate timely health responses, posing challenges for laboratory testing and access to care. The ongoing water crisis exacerbates the public health concerns in the region; therefore, addressing these issues remains paramount for the health of the affected communities.
In summary, the cluster of unexplained deaths in Basankusu raises significant public health concerns, necessitating rapid response and enhanced surveillance. Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of illness, with preliminary findings suggesting potential chemical exposure or rapid-onset infection. The local risk is deemed moderate, with a structured approach required to mitigate further incidents, emphasizing health education and improved healthcare access.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
