WHO Responds to Health Emergency in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: Mysterious Disease Causes More than 70 Deaths
WHO has emphasized that until laboratory tests are complete, it will not be possible to determine the cause of the outbreak with certainty. Dec 6, 2024 Photo: African News
December 6, 2024 Hour: 6:18 pm
The WHO team, made up of epidemiologists, doctors, and laboratory technicians, aims not only to identify the pathogen responsible but also to strengthen response measures in the region. This includes conducting epidemiological investigations, collecting samples for testing, and actively searching for cases.
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The World Health Organization (WHO) has deployed a team of experts to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to investigate an outbreak of a mysterious disease that has resulted in more than 70 deaths in Kwango province, specifically in the town of Panzi. This alarming development underscores the fragility of the health system in a region already facing multiple challenges.
Since October 24, 382 cases of this undiagnosed disease have been reported, with symptoms including headache, cough, fever, shortness of breath, and anemia.The lack of a clear diagnosis has complicated the health response and created uncertainty among affected communities.
WHO has emphasized that until laboratory tests are complete, it will not be possible to determine the cause of the outbreak with certainty.
The WHO team, made up of epidemiologists, doctors, and laboratory technicians, aims not only to identify the pathogen responsible but also to strengthen response measures in the region. This includes conducting epidemiological investigations, collecting samples for testing, and actively searching for cases.
In addition, efforts will be made to work with community leaders to promote disease surveillance and preventive measures.
The situation is critical, especially considering that Panzi is a rural community located more than 700 kilometers from Kinshasa, the capital of the country. Congolese authorities have placed the country on “high alert” while investigating whether the outbreak could be related to respiratory pathogens such as influenza or COVID-19, as well as endemic diseases such as malaria and measles.
The rapid spread of this disease in several health areas of Kwango raises serious concerns about its impact on an already vulnerable population.
Autor: MLM
Fuente: EFE
