Unknown Flu-like Disease Claims 79 Lives in DR Congo.

One of the emergency team sent on the ground. Courtesy image.

An unknown disease with flu-like symptoms has killed at least 79 people in the south-western Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo), the country’s health ministry has reported. The outbreak, which has primarily affected young people aged 15 to 18, has left more than 300 people infected.

Symptoms and Affected Areas
Patients are exhibiting symptoms such as fever, headaches, runny noses, coughing, breathing difficulties, and anemia. The disease is most prevalent in the Panzi health zone within Kwango Province, a rural area struggling with inadequate medical supplies to address the outbreak.

Response and Investigation
In response to the alarming situation, health teams have been dispatched to manage cases and investigate the disease’s origin. A team from the World Health Organization (WHO) Africa region has also been sent to the affected areas to collect samples for laboratory analysis.

Cephorien Manzanza, a civil society leader, described the situation as “worrying,” citing the increasing number of infections and the limited availability of medicines in the region. A local MP echoed these concerns, stating that Panzi hospital is overwhelmed and in desperate need of additional medical supplies to manage the epidemic.

Preventive Measures and Public Advice
Authorities have urged the public to remain calm and follow preventive measures. These include washing hands with soap, avoiding mass gatherings, and refraining from touching the bodies of the deceased without the supervision of qualified health personnel.

Between November 10 and 26, at least 67 people reportedly fell sick and died, underscoring the rapid progression of the outbreak. The local MP called for urgent assistance, emphasizing the dire need for medicine and medical personnel.

Context of Other Health Crises
The outbreak comes as DR Congo is also grappling with a severe mpox epidemic. Earlier this year, from January to July, the country recorded approximately 14,500 cases of mpox, adding further strain to the nation’s health system.

The health ministry and international organizations are working to contain the outbreak and identify the cause of the mysterious illness to prevent further loss of life.

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