A mysterious illness with flu-like symptoms has claimed the lives of dozens of people in the Democratic Republic of Congo, as reported by the country’s health authorities.
As of Tuesday, the unknown disease has resulted in the death of 79 people and the sickness of 376 individuals, according to the country’s Ministry of Public Health, Hygiene and Social Security.
In a statement regarding X, the ministry stated that the origin of the disease is “still unknown” and was first identified in Kwango province in southwestern Congo.
Symptoms reported include fever, headache, stuffy nose, cough, difficulty breathing, and anemia.
According to Reuters and Associated Press, local authorities have warned that the death toll could potentially rise to 143.
The Ministry of Health emphasized that the remains of those who have died with similar symptoms should not be handled without the involvement of authorized health authorities. They urged the public to report any suspicious illnesses or unusual deaths, avoid large gatherings, and follow basic hygiene practices like washing hands with soap and water.
Emergency public health officials are being deployed to the affected area, as confirmed by the ministry.
The World Health Organization, in response to the reports of the unidentified illness, stated to NBC News that they are collaborating with local authorities and have dispatched a team to collect samples for laboratory testing.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, with offices in Congo, is aware of the situation and is providing technical support to a rapid response team sent by the local emergency operations center.
Source: www.nbcnews.com
