Almost two weeks ago, WHO reported an outbreak of undiagnosed disease in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) that has now killed 143 people.
After days of confusion over the disease making people sick, authorities say test results show malaria may be responsible for the deadly outbreak in Kwango province, Democratic Republic of the Congo. However, experts warn that other pathogens may be involved.
World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus announced at a recent press conference that 10 out of 12 samples tested were positive for malaria. He added that investigations continue to determine the exact cause of the illness.
Samples have been sent to Kinshasa for further analysis, highlighting the lack of local testing capacity.
“In cases like this, it is important to remember that malaria is a serious disease and can be fatal,” Dr. Krutika Kupari, an infectious disease expert at the University of Texas, told TRT World.
Dr Kuppalli added that malaria, which is transmitted by specific mosquito species, is an enduring global health challenge that is influenced by biological, environmental, social and systemic factors.
“Despite significant progress in reducing the impact of malaria in many regions, its eradication faces several barriers,” she noted.
The number of infections increased from 111 people reported the previous week. The epidemic has particularly affected children, with almost 42 percent of cases reported in children under the age of five.
Dr. Abdi Mahmud, WHO interim director for alert and response coordination, said malaria is endemic in the region and an increase in respiratory illnesses is expected with the rainy season.
“For example, influenza and coronavirus infections are increasing in Kinshasa,” he said. Although epidemiological data do not show an explosive increase in infections or deaths, “high infant mortality rates indicate the need to address this problem in Panji and other vulnerable areas.” “There is,” he emphasized.
Dr. Kuppali further emphasized the importance of other contributing factors. “It is also important to remember that malnutrition and lack of access to quality health care can impact the severity and clinical presentation of the disease.”
