World Health Organization Probes New Mystery Illness Cluster in Democratic Republic of the Congo

The areas of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) affected by this latest mystery illness include Bolomba, where 12 cases and 8 deaths were reported in January, and Basankusu, where 158 cases and 58 deaths were recorded during February. Both areas are located in the western Equateur province of the country. More recently, 141 additional cases have been identified in Basankusu without reported fatalities. In total, health officials are said to have detected 1,096 suspected cases and 60 deaths across both regions, with symptoms ranging from fever and chills to muscle pain, vomiting, and respiratory issues.

A rapid response team, including World Health Organization (WHO) health emergency experts, has been deployed to investigate potential causes. Initial laboratory testing ruled out the Ebola and Marburg viruses, while nearly half of the tested cases had a positive malaria result. Further examinations are underway to determine whether other illnesses, such as meningitis, are contributing to the situation. Authorities are also analyzing food, water, and environmental samples to check for contamination.

While some scientists believe a single disease could explain all cases, others suggest a mix of common illnesses might be responsible. In a previous outbreak in the country, what initially seemed like a mysterious illness was later attributed to malaria and respiratory infections, worsened by malnutrition. Due to the DRC’s many ongoing public health challenges, including malnutrition and multiple disease outbreaks, its healthcare system is now under significant strain.

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