In Kwango province, Democratic Republic of Congo, a mysterious disease is wreaking havoc, mainly among children under five and severely malnourished individuals. The outbreak, which is affecting the Panzi health zone, was reported by the World Health Organization (WHO), which recorded 406 cases between 24 October and 5 December, resulting in 31 deaths. Symptoms include fever, headache, cough, runny nose and body aches.
Situated in a rural and isolated area, the outbreak is all the more difficult to contain due to torrential rains and a lack of health infrastructure. These obstacles have delayed the identification of the cause of the disease. WHO teams have been deployed to investigate, collect samples for laboratory testing and provide care to affected patients.
While malaria, a common disease in the region, could contribute to the spread of the outbreak, other factors such as acute pneumonia, influenza, COVID-19, measles and severe malnutrition cannot be ruled out. Experts do not rule out the possibility that multiple diseases are responsible for the reported cases and deaths. Efforts are underway to contain the outbreak and identify its cause.
The situation is complex and requires a rapid and coordinated response. In cooperation with local authorities and partner organizations, WHO is doing everything it can to contain the spread of this disease and provide adequate care to affected populations. It is crucial to remain vigilant and support efforts to combat this outbreak to protect the health and well-being of vulnerable communities in the region.