An unknown disease has swept through the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s southwestern province, claiming 143 lives in November.
Authorities in Kwango province reported the mysterious outbreak on Monday, describing symptoms such as high fever and severe headaches. Deputy Governor Remy Saki and Provincial Health Minister Apollinaire Yumba confirmed the grim toll.
Health officials have dispatched a medical team to the remote Panzi health zone to collect samples and investigate the outbreak. The disease, yet to be identified, has left the region in a state of growing concern as infections continue to rise.
Civil society leader Cephorien Manzanza described the crisis as alarming, emphasizing Panzi’s struggles with medicine shortages. “People are dying in their homes due to the lack of proper treatment,” he noted, underscoring the vulnerability of rural health zones.
Women and children appear to be the most severely affected, according to a local epidemiologist. The absence of adequate medical infrastructure has exacerbated the tragedy, leaving communities desperate for relief.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has joined forces with Congo’s public health ministry to investigate the outbreak. A WHO spokesperson confirmed they were alerted to the disease last week and are mobilizing resources to contain its spread.
As the mystery deepens, the people of Kwango province face an uphill battle against this deadly affliction, awaiting answers and aid.