Fatshimetrie is investigating a mysterious flu-like disease currently raging in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Since November 10, dozens of people have died in the Panzi health zone, Kwango province, due to the disease, which has symptoms including fever, headache, cough and anemia. The provincial health minister, Apollinaire Yumba, reported the deaths and advised the population to be careful and not touch the bodies of the deceased to avoid contamination.
The deputy governor of the region, Remy Saki, said the death toll ranges from 67 to 143, representing an alarming situation that requires immediate intervention. A team of epidemiology experts is expected to travel to the area to collect samples and identify the problem causing these unexplained deaths.
In addition, this region of Congo is already facing a smallpox epidemic, with more than 47,000 suspected cases and 1,000 presumed deaths, according to the World Health Organization. This critical health situation requires mobilization at both the national and international levels to provide the necessary medical equipment and stem this public health crisis that threatens the local population.
Apollinaire Yumba’s appeal for help from national and international partners demonstrates the urgency of the situation and the need for coordinated action to combat these diseases and avoid a health catastrophe. Congolese authorities must act quickly to protect the population and contain the spread of these deadly epidemics. The support of international health organizations and partner countries is crucial to address these challenges and save lives in this devastated region.