Health Officials Investigate Flu-Like Disease Linked to 143 Deaths in Southwest Congo

A flu-like illness has claimed many lives in southwestern Congo over two weeks, prompting an investigation by local authorities. The fatalities occurred between 10 November and 25 November in the Panzi health zone of Kwango province. Symptoms reported include fever, headache, cough, and anaemia, according to provincial health minister Apollinaire Yumba.

The deputy provincial governor, Rémy Saki, informed The Associated Press that the death toll ranges from 67 to 143 individuals. A team of epidemiological experts is anticipated to arrive in the area to collect samples and determine the cause of the outbreak. Yumba urged residents to avoid contact with deceased bodies to prevent further spread of the disease.

Health Crisis Response

Yumba also appealed for national and international assistance in providing medical supplies to combat this health crisis. Meanwhile, Congo is already dealing with an mpox epidemic, which has resulted in over 47,000 suspected cases and more than 1,000 suspected deaths, as reported by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

The WHO is aware of this unidentified illness and has dispatched a team to collaborate with local health services in collecting samples. An employee from the organisation confirmed this information but requested anonymity due to not being authorised to speak publicly.

Efforts are underway to identify the disease's origin and implement measures to control its spread. The situation remains critical as authorities work to manage both this new outbreak and the ongoing mpox epidemic.