At least 79 people have died from an unknown disease causing flu-like symptoms in the southwestern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), according to the country’s health ministry.
The majority of the fatalities have been young people, with most victims aged between 15 and 18. In addition to the deaths, over 300 individuals have been infected, displaying symptoms such as fever, headaches, runny noses, coughs, breathing difficulties, and anaemia.
In response to the outbreak, health teams have been deployed to Kwango Province, specifically the Panzi health zone, where the disease has been most prevalent. The teams are working to manage the situation and investigate the nature of the disease.
Symphorien Manzanza, a civil society leader, expressed concern about the rising number of cases. He told Reuters, “Panzi is a rural health zone, so there is a problem with the supply of medicines.”
A representative from the World Health Organization (WHO) Africa region also confirmed to the BBC that a team had been dispatched to the affected area to collect samples for laboratory analysis.
Authorities have urged the population to remain calm while taking necessary precautions. Health officials have advised people to wash their hands with soap, avoid mass gatherings, and refrain from handling the bodies of the deceased without the assistance of qualified health personnel.
A local Member of Parliament (MP) reported to Top Congo Radio that between November 10 and 26, 67 people fell ill and died due to the disease. “It should be noted that Panzi hospital is short of medicines to cope with this epidemic. We really need assistance,” the MP added.
This outbreak comes as DRC continues to deal with other health challenges, including a severe mpox outbreak that saw approximately 14,500 cases between January and July of this year. The country has also faced recurring Ebola outbreaks in recent years.
