The World Health Organization (WHO) has updated its report on the mysterious Disease X outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The latest data shows 406 cases, including 31 deaths, with a case fatality ratio of 7.6%. Despite initial estimates ranging from 79 to 143 deaths, the WHO now reports a significantly higher number.
The disease predominantly affects younger people, with over 64% of all cases reported in those under the age of 14. Children under five years old account for approximately 53% of all cases and half of all deaths. The symptoms are consistent with a respiratory virus, but the cause remains unknown.
Limited medical information about the patients is available, including vaccine histories, making it challenging to investigate the outbreak. The WHO report notes that extreme malnutrition and co-infection with malaria in the region could exacerbate the disease’s severity.
The WHO advises that the current risk level in the affected region is high, while at a national level, the risk within the DRC is considered moderate. However, these estimates may change as more information becomes available about the cause and spread of the disease. The WHO is analyzing samples from patients to provide more definitive information soon.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/davewessner/2024/12/08/who-provides-update-about-disease-x-in-democratic-republic-of-the-congo