A mysterious disease, currently referred to as Disease X by the African Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, has killed scores of people in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The disease appears to be limited to the Kwango Province, a remote area in the southwest of the DRC, but its broader spread is possible.
The exact magnitude of the outbreak is unclear, with reports indicating 79 deaths or as many as 143, according to Reuters. The first case was reported in late October, and the timeline of other cases has not been clearly disclosed.
Symptoms reported include flu-like symptoms such as headaches, fevers, and breathing difficulties, consistent with a respiratory virus. However, the causative agent remains undetermined. World Health Organization (WHO) experts have been deployed to aid in the investigation, analyzing samples from people affected by the disease.
Scientists hope that basic laboratory tests will reveal whether Disease X has a viral etiology, potentially aiding in its identification and treatment. Until more data is available, speculation about the cause of the outbreak is difficult.
It’s unclear what could be causing the outbreak, with possibilities including an existing virus variant like influenza or SARS-CoV-2, or a newly emerging virus. Another possibility is that it has a non-communicable cause. A highly virulent respiratory virus could pose a significant global threat, as seen with Covid-19.
The DRC already faces other infectious disease outbreaks, including mpox and Ebola. The WHO Director-General declared mpox an international public health emergency in August, with over 47,000 cases reported since January 2024. The country also struggles with HIV/AIDS, affecting half a million people.
More information about Disease X’s cause, severity, and prevention strategies is expected soon. Healthcare providers and researchers remain vigilant until then.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/davewessner/2024/12/06/mysterious-disease-x-kills-scores-in-democratic-republic-of-the-congo