A mysterious illness is spreading in the Panzi health zone of Kwango Province in the Democratic Republic of Congo, predominantly affecting children under five and those suffering from severe malnutrition. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 406 cases have been recorded between October 24 and December 5, resulting in 31 deaths. Symptoms reported include fever, headache, cough, runny nose, and body aches.
The outbreak is concentrated in a rural and remote region, where access is hindered by heavy rains and inadequate healthcare infrastructure. These challenges have slowed efforts to identify the disease, as limited diagnostic tools complicate the process. WHO teams have been deployed to investigate, collect samples for testing, and provide medical care to those affected.
Malaria, a prevalent illness in the region, is suspected to play a role in the outbreak, along with other potential factors such as acute pneumonia, influenza, COVID-19, measles, and severe malnutrition. Experts have not ruled out the possibility that a combination of diseases may be causing the reported cases and fatalities.
Efforts to contain the outbreak and determine its cause are ongoing, with health authorities working to mitigate its impact on the vulnerable population. Investigations and testing continue as WHO and local teams prioritize both treatment and preventive measures to manage the situation.
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