At least 79 people have died from an unidentified, flu-like illness in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) Africa, according to reports from the BBC. Since November 10, around 300 individuals have been infected in Kwango province by this mysterious flu. The disease presents with symptoms resembling the flu, such as fever, headaches, coughing, breathing problems, and anaemia. Whereas it is seen that majority of those who have died are between the ages of 15 and 18. The DRC’s Ministry of Health took to the X handle and has confirmed […]
A Mysterious Flu-Like Illness Claims 79 Lives In Africa
At least 79 people have died from an unidentified, flu-like illness in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) Africa, according to reports from the BBC. Since November 10, around 300 individuals have been infected in Kwango province by this mysterious flu. The disease presents with symptoms resembling the flu, such as fever, headaches, coughing, breathing problems, and anaemia. Whereas it is seen that majority of those who have died are between the ages of 15 and 18.
The DRC’s Ministry of Health took to the X handle and has confirmed that the disease’s origins still remains unclear. Health officials have responded by dispatching teams to Kwango province to investigate and manage the on-going outbreak. In an effort to curb further spread, the government has issued public health guidelines. The health guidelines urges people to wash their hands regularly with soap. Furthermore citizens are asked to avoid mass gatherings. Moreover touching the bodies of the deceased without the presence of health professionals is not allowed.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has also stepped in. WHO has sent a team to the region to collect samples for laboratory analysis. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which has a presence in the country, is providing technical support to a local emergency response team.
Local leaders are expressing concern about the rapid spread of the disease. Symphorien Manzanza, a civil society leader, has emphasized the challenges faced by rural areas like Panzi, where there is a shortage of medical supplies. A local member of parliament reported that 67 people had died between November 10 and 26. This cites lack of resources at Panzi Hospital to address the crisis. The MP also said that, “It should be noted that Panzi Hospital is short of medicines to cope with this epidemic. We really need assistance”
This new health emergency comes amid another public health challenge for the DRC: a severe outbreak of Mpox in Africa. The country has also experienced recurring Ebola outbreaks in recent years. As the situation develops, the authorities are continuing efforts to manage both the current unknown disease and the broader health challenges in the region.
