Unidentified Flu-like Disease in Congo Kills 71; Children Under Five Affected

Dec 5, 2024, 01:45 PM

An unidentified illness has emerged in the Panzi area of the Democratic Republic of Congo's Kwango province, causing flu-like symptoms including fever, headaches, cough, breathing difficulties, and anemia. The outbreak has resulted in 71 deaths among 382 suspected cases, with children under five representing 40% of those affected. Health Minister Roger Kamba announced that the government is on 'maximum alert,' urging citizens to adhere to hygiene measures and avoid mass gatherings. The World Health Organization has dispatched a team to collect samples for laboratory analysis, believing the disease may be airborne and noting that it emerged during the influenza season. Samples are being transported over 500 kilometers due to the remoteness of the affected area.