Investigation Intensifies into Outbreak of Illnesses and Deaths in Equateur Province, DRC
Health officials in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, in conjunction with WHO experts, are investigating a cluster of illnesses and deaths in Equateur province. Recent reports reveal a significant rise in cases, particularly in Basankusu and Bolamba health zones. Initial tests excluded Ebola and Marburg but indicated malaria as a common cause. WHO continues to aid local health authorities with necessary resources and support.
Health authorities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, alongside experts from the World Health Organization (WHO), have intensified investigations regarding a recent cluster of illness and community deaths in Equateur province. Over the past few months, disease surveillance efforts have identified spikes in illnesses and fatalities, prompting further investigations to ascertain their causes and provide necessary support within the affected regions.
Since early 2025, Equateur province has faced a series of health crises, particularly in the Basankusu health zone, where 141 new illnesses were reported last week with no deaths. Earlier data indicated 158 cases and 58 deaths in February, while the Bolamba health zone reported 12 illnesses and 8 deaths. Cumulatively, 1,096 individuals have been reported sick, with 60 fatalities linked to symptoms such as fever, headaches, chills, and gastrointestinal issues.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo is currently grappling with multiple health crises, exacerbating the burden on its healthcare system. In response to the alarming cluster of illnesses, a national rapid response team including WHO experts has been deployed to the affected health zones to investigate unusual patterns, conduct disease surveillance, and offer treatment for prevalent illnesses.
The WHO has provided essential emergency medical supplies, including testing kits and detailed protocols to enhance investigatory procedures. Initial laboratory results ruled out Ebola and Marburg viruses, though many samples tested positive for malaria, which is endemic in the region. Further testing is underway for meningitis, alongside analyses of potential contaminants in food, water, and the environment.
Despite geographic challenges, such as the distances between Basankusu and Bolomba, which are over 300 kilometers from the provincial capital Mbandaka, WHO continues to support local health authorities. More than 80 community health workers have been trained to detect and report cases. Enhanced efforts for testing, early detection, and future incident reporting are imperative, and WHO remains committed to providing support to curb disease spread in the region.
In conclusion, the Democratic Republic of the Congo is urgently addressing a troubling cluster of illnesses and community deaths in Equateur province. With rigorous disease surveillance and a multilateral response involving WHO and local health authorities, efforts are underway to identify causes and mitigate the health impact. Continued support and resources are essential to control outbreaks and safeguard public health in this region.
Original Source: www.afro.who.int
