WHO Investigates Unidentified Deadly Disease Outbreak in DRC

The WHO has dispatched a health team to the DRC to investigate an outbreak of an unidentified disease that has resulted in at least 79 deaths and nearly 400 reported cases since October. Symptoms are flu-like, with local officials indicating a higher possible death toll. WHO is collaborating with national authorities to address the situation and collect samples for laboratory testing.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has sent a health team to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to address an outbreak of a currently unidentified disease, which has resulted in the deaths of at least 79 individuals since late October. Reportedly, there have been around 376 cases documented in the Kwango province, particularly within the Panzi health zone. Local health officials suggested that the death toll could be higher, potentially reaching 143 fatalities, predominantly among women and children.

The ailment manifests with symptoms similar to the flu, including fever, headaches, nasal discharge, cough, and respiratory difficulties. WHO spokesperson Tarik Jašarević confirmed that the organization is collaborating with national authorities to discern the nature of the disease, stating, “WHO is aware of an unidentified disease and is working with the national authorities to understand the situation.”

The health authorities have issued a public health advisory, asking residents to report any unusual symptoms or deaths and to adhere strictly to hygiene protocols to limit further transmission. Given the DRC’s history of epidemics, including a severe Ebola outbreak between 2018 and 2020, vigilance is crucial. The WHO team has been tasked with collecting samples for laboratory assessment, although it remains uncertain how long this process may take.

The Democratic Republic of Congo has been historically plagued by various infectious outbreaks, primarily viral diseases such as Ebola and Marburg Virus Disease. The reported outbreak of this unidentified disease has raised significant concern as it shares symptoms with various communicable diseases and poses a threat to public health. The outbreak, which has reportedly affected mostly children and women, is now under investigation by the WHO, which seeks to provide support and understand the situation more comprehensively.

In summary, the WHO has promptly mobilized a team to the DRC to investigate a deadly unidentified disease that has resulted in numerous casualties. Local health officials indicate that the actual number of fatalities could be higher than reported. The community is urged to remain alert and comply with safety protocols to mitigate the spread of this illness as investigations continue to uncover its origins and nature.

Original Source: bnonews.com