Mystery illness in Congo: Over 500 infected, WHO investigates
A mysterious flu-like illness has emerged in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The World Health Organization (WHO) suggests a possible link to malaria but does not rule out other diseases. So far, infection has been confirmed in over 500 people, and the illness is proving deadly.
2:22 PM EST, December 14, 2024
In the western part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, 514 cases of a new, unidentified disease have been reported. The symptoms resemble the flu, and this disease surfaced just four months after the WHO declared a global health emergency due to mpox.
Possible link to malaria
WHO specialists who arrived on site conducted initial studies and collected samples from patients. Tedros Adhanom, WHO Director-General, reported that 10 out of 12 tested samples were positive for malaria. However, he emphasized that "it is also possible that more than one disease is contributing to the cases and deaths."
Experts stress that to determine the exact causes of the epidemic, it is necessary to collect more samples and conduct further tests. Research teams are analyzing the transmission dynamics and seeking additional cases both in health facilities and in local communities.
Recommendations for travelers
The Global Infectious Diseases Service (GIS) recommends caution for individuals arriving from the region with symptoms of respiratory infection. Those planning to travel to the Democratic Republic of the Congo should exercise special caution, follow the announcements of local authorities and the WHO.
Potential contributing factors include severe pneumonia, influenza, COVID-19, measles, and malaria, with malnutrition being a coexisting factor.
Are we facing another pandemic?
The unknown disease in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is reminiscent of other recent epidemics in the region. Ebola, an equally dangerous virus, has struck Congo again, causing the death of four people following the detection of a new outbreak in the western part of the country. At the same time, an Ebola-infected patient escaped from a clinic in Congo, raising WHO concerns about a potential increase in infections.
The World Health Organization is concerned about the situation in Congo, describing the epidemic development as alarming. The WHO is attempting to manage the situation by sending specialized teams to the area and planning vaccinations and drug deliveries. Unfortunately, the Ebola outbreak amid managing the coronavirus pandemic poses a significant challenge for medical services.
Meanwhile, the WHO is seeking effective treatments for the new coronavirus and other diseases. A protocol for testing African herbal medicines as potential treatments has been approved. This approach aims to conduct clinical trials and potentially introduce natural medicines if they prove effective and safe.
