A recent cluster of unexplained deaths in Basankusu, DRC, led to 53 reported fatalities by February 25, 2025. The disease mainly affected young males, showing rapid progression alongside significant malaria positivity. Ongoing investigations and enhanced surveillance are being executed to identify the cause of these deaths, with current assessments indicating a moderate local health risk.
On February 9, 2025, health authorities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo reported a cluster of 24 unexplained deaths in a village within the Ekoto health area of the Basankusu health zone. By February 25, the death toll had risen to 53, with the last recorded death on February 22. The cases disproportionately affected adolescents and young adult males, indicating an unusual mortality pattern in an area typically most affected by infectious diseases among the elderly and young children.
The disease exhibited rapid progression, with a median time from symptom onset to death of just one day. Symptoms included fever, chills, headaches, and gastrointestinal issues, among others. As of February 25, 1318 individuals met the suspected case definition, revealing significant malaria positivity in tested patients. Ongoing investigations aim to clarify the cause, with potential hypotheses including chemical poisoning and rapid onset bacterial meningitis.
Surveillance and investigation efforts intensified following the initial reports, supported by WHO and local health teams. Testing for known pathogens, including Ebola and Marburg viruses, yielded negative results. Environmental assessments are being conducted to investigate possible chemical contamination, especially given the region’s water crisis that has resulted in reliance on potentially unsafe water sources.
Public health responses have included deploying rapid response teams, enhancing case surveillance, and ensuring proper laboratory support. Community engagement initiatives are being undertaken to promote awareness of symptoms and the need for timely medical attention. As investigations progress, the health risk is assessed as moderate locally, with a low risk at national, regional, and global levels.
The cluster of unexplained deaths in Basankusu remains under investigation, with suspected causes still undetermined. Enhanced surveillance is crucial for understanding the situation, while community engagement aims to ensure timely health-seeking behaviors. Initial findings suggest a localized event with a declining incidence, pointing towards potential chemical poisoning or bacterial infection as key hypotheses.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
