The Democratic Republic of the Congo is investigating clusters of illness and fatalities in Equateur province. Recent surveillance revealed increasing cases, prompting a response from health authorities and WHO experts. The situation remains critical as testing continues for possible diseases, while healthcare access challenges complicate the response efforts.
Health authorities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, alongside experts from the World Health Organization (WHO), are intensifying investigations into a series of illnesses and deaths in Equateur province. Recent health surveillance has noted a troubling increase in cases across different regions of the country. A follow-up response is underway to identify the cause and extend necessary support to affected communities.
In 2025, Equateur province has witnessed a disturbing trend of illnesses and community deaths. The latest cluster emerged in the Basankusu health zone, with 141 patients falling ill last week, although no fatalities were reported in this instance. Previous reports indicated 158 cases and 58 deaths in February, with an earlier January outbreak in Bolamba resulting in 12 illnesses and 8 deaths.
Disease surveillance has accounted for a total of 1,096 individuals displaying symptoms—such as fever, headaches, and joint pain—with 60 associated deaths across the Basankusu and Bolomba zones. The symptoms fit a broad case definition, raising concerns and prompting heightened monitoring and investigation of the situation.
In light of the current health emergency, a national rapid response team, including WHO experts, has been deployed to the affected areas. The experts aim to enhance disease surveillance, conduct community interviews, and provide treatment for common ailments, including malaria and typhoid fever. WHO has supplied emergency medical equipment and support protocols for investigating the outbreak.
Initial lab tests denied the presence of Ebola and Marburg viruses, while approximately half of the samples tested positive for malaria. Additional analyses for meningitis and environmental contamination are planned, with samples being sent to the national reference laboratory. The geographic remoteness of Basankusu and Bolomba hinders access to healthcare and testing services, complicating the response efforts.
WHO is reinforcing local health authorities’ capabilities by training over 80 community health workers for case identification and reporting. Continued emphasis on testing, early detection, and effective reporting practices is vital for managing the ongoing situation and preparing for potential future incidents. WHO remains committed to providing medical supplies and coordinating a robust response to this pressing health crisis.
The ongoing health investigation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo highlights a serious public health challenge in Equateur province. With multiple clusters of illnesses leading to significant fatalities, the need for increased surveillance and healthcare responses is critical. WHO’s involvement in supporting local health authorities is essential for addressing the immediate health needs and preventing further outbreaks in the region.
Original Source: www.afro.who.int
