The World Health Organization (WHO) has dispatched a team of health experts to support the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in identifying the cause of an undiagnosed disease reported in Panzi, a locality in Kwango Province, southwest of the country. Laboratory investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the illness, which has so far affected 394 individuals and claimed 30 lives, according to the Ministry of Public Health.
The multidisciplinary team, including epidemiologists, clinicians, laboratory technicians, and risk communication experts, is joining the National Rapid Response Team in Panzi. Essential supplies such as diagnostic tools, medicines, and sample collection kits are also being delivered to facilitate the investigation.
WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, emphasized the urgency of the intervention, stating, "Our priority is to provide effective support to the affected families and communities.
All efforts are underway to identify the cause of the illness, understand its modes of transmission, and ensure an appropriate response as swiftly as possible."
Symptoms of the illness include headache, cough, fever, breathing difficulties, and anemia. Investigations are focusing on respiratory pathogens such as Influenza or COVID-19, as well as other potential causes like malaria and measles.
The disease has been reported in seven of the 30 health zones in Kwango Province, with most cases concentrated in three zones.
Panzi, a rural area over 700 kilometers from Kinshasa, faces challenges such as poor road access and limited communication networks, complicating response efforts.
The WHO team aims to strengthen disease surveillance, conduct active case finding, enhance public awareness, and work with local leaders to prevent further spread. Further updates will be provided as laboratory results and findings emerge.
