WHO Investigates Mystery Illness in Congo as Death Toll Rises

An undiagnosed disease in the Democratic Republic of Congo has infected over 400 people, primarily children, with malnutrition complicating efforts to identify the cause.

The outbreak, centered in the remote Panzi health zone of Congo's Kwango Province, has caused 406 reported cases and 31 confirmed deaths, though local estimates suggest as many as 143 fatalities.
The illness, dubbed 'Disease X,' presents flu-like symptoms such as fever, cough, headache, and anemia, with children under five disproportionately affected.
Malnutrition is a significant factor, with all severe cases involving individuals suffering from acute malnutrition, complicating diagnosis and treatment efforts.
WHO and Africa CDC teams are conducting laboratory tests to determine potential causes, including respiratory infections, malaria, and other known diseases, while considering the possibility of multiple contributing factors.
The outbreak's remote location, poor infrastructure, and ongoing rainy season have hindered response efforts, with samples needing transport to distant laboratories for analysis.