Since October 24, a mysterious illness has caused between 79 and 143 deaths in the DRC, mainly in Kwango province. What is its origin and why does it particularly affect this isolated region? Symptoms are similar to the flu, but lack of access to care complicates the situation. A medical team investigates to identify the disease and provide a solution.
Since October 24, the disease of unknown origin has killed between 79 and 143 people (depending on the source) in the southwestern province of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
What do we know about this mysterious disease?
In a press release on December 4, the Ministry of Public Health of the Democratic Republic of the Congo warned: “ A disease of unknown origin is spreading in Kwango province, especially in Panzi region (…). To date, the disease has killed 79 people, the majority of whom are children over the age of 15, and infected 376 people. “Other sources, such as the Reuters agency, put the number of victims at twice as high.
Infected individuals experience flu-like symptoms, ie feverfeverHeadache, runny nose, cough, difficulty breathing etc AnemiaAnemia.
Difficult access to care
As civil society leader Sephorine Manzanza explained to Reuters, “ Panzi is a rural health zone, so there is a problem with drug supply. Patients die at home due to lack of treatment. ».
Therefore, a team was dispatched to the site by the National Institute of Public Health and the Center for Emergency Operations and Public Health. Triple Purpose:
- Ensure prompt patient care;
- take samples;
- Identify the nature of the disease.
While awaiting the results, local authorities are urging people to remain calm and follow the following precautions:
- avoiding gatherings;
- Report any suspicious cases;
- Observe basic hygiene rules (hand washing etc.).
