A mysterious respiratory virus is spreading rapidly in a remote region of the Democratic Republic of Congo, killing 31 people and sickening over 400 others. The World Health Organization (WHO) has been investigating the outbreak, which causes symptoms such as fever, headache, cough, runny nose, and body aches.
The majority of cases reported are among children under five years old, with severe malnourishment linked to severe illness. Children under 15 account for 70% of deaths, while nearly 60% of patients are female. The outbreak is in the Panzi health zone of Kwango Province, which is rural and remote, making it difficult to access during the rainy season.
WHO officials believe that acute pneumonia, influenza, COVID-19, measles, and malaria are possible causes of the outbreak, with malnutrition also playing a contributing factor. Health workers are treating patients and trying to find the cause of the outbreak, but challenges include a lack of supplies, transportation means, and health staff in the area.
The WHO is considering several possible causes, including acute pneumonia, hemolytic uremic syndrome from Escherichia coli infection. The organization is urging caution and cooperation as it works to contain the outbreak and find a solution.
Source: https://www.cidrap.umn.edu/misc-emerging-topics/officials-continue-probe-dr-congo-mystery-illness