Congo ‘on general alert’ over flu-like disease that’s killed dozens

Public health officials in Africa are closely monitoring a flu-like disease that has claimed the lives of dozens of people in Congo in recent weeks. The government is on high alert as experts work to determine the nature of the illness.

Jean Kaseya, the head of the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, stated that initial diagnostics suggest the disease is respiratory in nature, but more information is needed from laboratory samples. The lack of knowledge about the disease, including its infectiousness and mode of transmission, is a cause for concern.

Health Minister Roger Kamba confirmed 71 deaths, with a significant number occurring in the southern Kwango province. The victims, including children under five, experienced symptoms such as fever, headache, cough, and anemia. Epidemiological experts are on the ground to conduct investigations and collect samples for analysis.

The remote nature of the affected region has posed challenges for accessing proper healthcare and testing facilities. Panzi, the health zone where the outbreak occurred, already faced issues with malnutrition and previous disease outbreaks. Residents have expressed frustration over the lack of medical supplies and care for those affected by the illness.

Claude Niongo, a resident of Panzi, shared the heartbreaking experience of losing his wife and daughter to the disease. He highlighted the urgent need for better medical facilities and resources to combat the outbreak effectively. Local officials have also voiced concerns about the spread of the disease to neighboring health zones.

As the situation unfolds, authorities are working to contain the outbreak and provide necessary support to affected communities. The challenges posed by the current health crisis add to the existing burden of diseases like mpox in Congo. The World Health Organization reports thousands of suspected cases and deaths from the disease, further underscoring the need for comprehensive public health interventions.

The ongoing efforts to address the flu-like disease in Congo serve as a reminder of the importance of robust healthcare systems and timely responses to emerging health threats. Collaboration between local and international health organizations is crucial in safeguarding the well-being of vulnerable populations and preventing the spread of infectious diseases.