Statement from DR Congo's Health Ministry on unidentified illness:
OFFICIAL COMMUNIQUÉ
Concerning situation in the Panzi health zone, Kwango province
Since October 24, 2024, a disease of still unknown origin has been spreading in Kwango province, specifically in the Panzi health zone. To date, this disease has caused the death of 79 people, most of whom are children over 15 years old, and has affected 376 individuals.
The reported symptoms among patients include:
• Fever
• Headache
• Nasal discharge and cough
• Difficulty breathing
• Anemia
The Ministry of Public Health, Hygiene, and Social Welfare expresses its deep sympathy to the families affected by this tragedy and offers them its sincerest condolences.
To provide a rapid and effective response to this concerning situation, the Ministry, through the National Institute of Public Health (INSP) and the Public Health Emergency Operations Center (COUSP), has dispatched a rapid response team to the affected area. The mission of this team is to:
1. Ensure immediate care for reported cases.
2. Collect samples from patients for laboratory analysis.
3. Conduct in-depth investigations in the field to identify the nature of this disease.
The results of laboratory analyses will be communicated as soon as they are available, and regular updates will be shared with the public and partners.
While awaiting the conclusions of the ongoing investigations, the Ministry urges the population to remain calm, stay vigilant, and strictly adhere to the following preventive measures:
1. Avoid mass gatherings.
2. Report any suspected cases or unusual deaths to local health authorities.
3. Observe basic hygiene rules, including regular handwashing with soap and water.
4. Do not handle deceased bodies without the intervention of authorized health personnel.
The Ministry of Public Health, Hygiene, and Social Welfare reaffirms its commitment to protecting the population and working closely with national and international partners to provide a rapid and effective response to this health crisis.
For any information or assistance, the public is asked to contact the call center at the toll-free number: 151.