A deadly outbreak of an unidentified disease has claimed the lives of 143 people in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), sparking concerns among health officials and the World Health Organization (WHO).
The disease, which presents with flu-like symptoms such as high fever and severe headaches, has disproportionately affected women and children, according to local authorities. The outbreak is concentrated in Kwango province, located southwest of the DRC near the border with Angola.
Health officials, including Remy Saki, the deputy governor of Kwango, and Apollinaire Yumba, the province’s health minister, confirmed that samples are being collected and analyzed to determine the cause of the outbreak. “The situation is extremely worrying, and the death toll is rising rapidly,” Yumba stated.
On November 25, authorities reported 67 deaths from the mysterious illness, but the number has more than doubled within days. Many patients are reportedly dying in their homes without access to treatment, further complicating containment efforts.
The DRC is already grappling with a monkeypox outbreak, adding strain to its healthcare system. It remains unclear if the new disease is linked to existing health challenges or represents a separate public health crisis.
While tests are ongoing, officials have yet to confirm whether the illness is unrelated to known diseases. The DRC has a history of battling severe outbreaks, including Ebola, which has caused significant loss of life in the past. For instance, an Ebola outbreak in 2019 resulted in over 3,250 cases and 2,100 deaths.
Health experts warn that the lack of swift intervention could lead to further escalation. The WHO and other health organizations are monitoring the situation closely and coordinating with local authorities to provide support.
Efforts to identify the cause and curb the spread of the mysterious illness remain a top priority as the region faces mounting public health challenges.
