WHO Investigates Suspected Water Contamination Linked to Illness in Congo
The WHO is investigating water contamination suspected to be linked to fatal illnesses in Congo, with at least 60 reported deaths since late January. The health crisis has affected several villages, compounded by high malaria rates, complicating diagnoses. The situation has created fear among residents, with significant challenges in accessing medical care.
The World Health Organization (WHO) announced that they are investigating the suspected contamination of a water source in a village in northwestern Democratic Republic of Congo. This examination is part of an investigation into the deaths of at least 60 individuals. WHO emphasized that it is premature to make any definitive conclusions about the cause of the illnesses that have emerged since late January in five villages within Equateur province.
Dr. Michael Ryan, WHO’s emergencies chief, reported that there is “a very strong level of suspicion… related to the poisoning of a water source” in one particular village. However, he did not disclose whether this contamination was accidental, negligent, or intentional, nor did he identify the specific village involved.
The health crisis began in Boloko village when three children consumed a bat and subsequently died within 48 hours. Although there have been twelve cases and a total of eight fatalities recorded in Boloko, no new cases have been reported since January, and nearly half of the deaths occurred shortly after symptoms started.
The village of Bomate in the Basankusu health zone has experienced the most severe impact, accounting for 98% of the cases and 86% of the deaths according to health officials. WHO noted that hundreds of affected individuals have tested positive for malaria, which complicates the diagnosis of the illnesses, with symptoms ranging from fever and body aches to more severe manifestations such as stiff neck and bleeding.
The ongoing health crisis has instilled fear within the community, prompting some residents to flee to avoid contracting the illness. Experts have expressed concern that the remote locations of the affected villages have impeded access to medical assistance, resulting in several fatalities before medical teams could reach those in need.
In summary, the WHO is investigating a suspected water contamination issue linked to illnesses in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where over 60 deaths have occurred since late January. Multiple villages are affected, with significant complications arising from high malaria rates, posing challenges for medical personnel. The organization continues its inquiry to determine the exact cause of the health crisis.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
