WHO Identifies Known Causes Behind 'Krankheit X' in the DR Congo

The outbreak in the Kwango province is linked to malaria, respiratory viruses, and severe undernutrition, disproportionately affecting children under five.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has determined that the so-called 'Krankheit X' in the Democratic Republic of Congo is caused by a combination of known pathogens, including malaria and common respiratory viruses such as influenza and coronaviruses.
Since October, over 900 cases with flu-like symptoms have been reported in the Kwango province, with local authorities estimating over 130 deaths, though the WHO officially reports 48 fatalities.
Children under five years old represent a significant portion of the affected population, with severe undernutrition exacerbating the outbreak's impact.
The region's acute undernutrition rates are alarmingly high, with 40% of the population and 60% of children estimated to be undernourished, increasing vulnerability to infections.
Efforts to address the crisis include deploying multidisciplinary response teams and strengthening healthcare infrastructure in the remote area, which faces logistical challenges and limited resources.