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The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported 406 cases between October 24 and December 5, resulting in 31 deaths
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A mysterious illness is spreading in the Panzi health zone of Kwango Province, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), with children under five and severely malnourished individuals being the most affected. The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported 406 cases between October 24 and December 5, resulting in 31 deaths.
The disease manifests with symptoms such as fever, headache, cough, runny nose, and body aches.
The outbreak is concentrated in a rural and remote area, where heavy rains and limited healthcare infrastructure have hindered access and delayed the identification of the disease's cause. WHO teams are on the ground conducting investigations, collecting samples for laboratory analysis, and providing treatment to those affected.
Health experts suggest malaria—a prevalent illness in the region—could be a significant contributor to the outbreak, along with other potential causes such as acute pneumonia, influenza, COVID-19, measles, and severe malnutrition. It is possible that a combination of diseases is responsible for the reported cases and fatalities.
Efforts are ongoing to control the outbreak and identify its root cause. Meanwhile, the WHO and local health authorities are working to improve diagnostic capabilities and deliver care to affected communities.
