A mysterious flu-like illness has swept through southwestern Congo, claiming the lives of up to 143 people in the past two weeks. Health authorities are working to identify the disease as the number of infected individuals continues to rise.
The outbreak is concentrated in the Panzi health zone of Kwango province, where hundreds have been infected and between 67 and 143 people have died, according to government officials. Symptoms of the illness include fever, headache, cough, and anemia.
A team of epidemiological experts is being deployed to the region to investigate the outbreak and collect samples for analysis. The World Health Organization (WHO) has also been alerted and is providing support to local health authorities.
The situation is particularly concerning due to limited healthcare resources in the affected area. “Panzi is a rural health zone, so there is a problem with the supply of medicines,” said Cephorien Manzanza, a civil society leader.
Locals have been advised to take precautions and avoid contact with deceased individuals. The high mortality rate is partly attributed to the lack of access to treatment, with many sick people reportedly dying in their homes.
This outbreak adds to the health challenges faced by Congo, which is already grappling with an mpox epidemic that has caused significant fatalities and infections. The emergence of this unidentified illness underscores the need for continued vigilance and public health measures to protect vulnerable populations.
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