DR Congo Investigates Disturbing Cluster of Illness and Deaths in Equateur Province
The Democratic Republic of the Congo is deepening investigations into a recent cluster of illnesses in Equateur province, where numerous cases and fatalities have been reported. WHO is collaborating with local health authorities to analyze potential causes and provide medical support. The health response includes enhanced surveillance, training of community health workers, and the management of prevalent diseases such as malaria.
Health authorities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), in partnership with experts from the World Health Organization (WHO), are intensifying investigations into a recent outbreak of illness and community fatalities in Equateur province. This area has experienced multiple surges in illnesses and deaths in the past few months, necessitating a comprehensive examination to identify the underlying cause and to provide essential support to affected communities.
Since the beginning of 2025, Equateur province has faced serious health challenges, with the latest cluster of illness reported in the Basankusu health zone. Last week, 141 individuals fell ill, though no deaths were recorded. In February, this zone had reported 158 cases with 58 fatalities, while another health zone, Bolamba, recorded 12 illnesses, including 8 deaths, earlier this year.
Overall, disease surveillance has identified 1,096 cases and 60 deaths in Basankusu and Bolomba, with symptoms including fever, headache, stiff neck, and cough, among others. The DRC is currently grappling with several concurrent health crises, which significantly burdens the healthcare system and the local population.
In reaction to this emerging health crisis, a rapid response team from Kinshasa, supported by WHO health emergency specialists, has been deployed to both health zones. These experts are enhancing disease surveillance, interviewing community members for background information, and administering treatments for conditions like malaria and typhoid fever, which are prevalent in the region.
WHO has provided emergency medical supplies, including testing kits, and has established protocols to optimize the investigation process. Initial laboratory tests have ruled out Ebola and Marburg viruses, while approximately half of the samples tested positive for malaria. Additional tests for meningitis will be conducted, and environmental samples will be analyzed to assess potential contamination sources.
The geographical distance between Basankusu and Bolomba, about 180 kilometers apart, poses significant challenges for healthcare access. The remoteness limits the availability of essential testing and treatment services, compounded by poor infrastructure.
WHO is actively assisting local health authorities in enhancing response measures, training over 80 community health workers to detect and report cases. Ongoing efforts are critical for improving testing and early case detection to prevent future outbreaks. WHO remains committed to supporting healthcare personnel and collaborating with national authorities to deliver life-saving medical supplies and coordinate responses effectively.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo is currently facing a severe health crisis in Equateur province, exemplified by a recent cluster of illnesses and community deaths. Authorities, alongside WHO, are pursuing thorough investigations to pinpoint the causes, while also implementing immediate healthcare measures. Enhanced disease surveillance, treatment provisions, and community health worker training are pivotal in addressing the situation and preventing further outbreaks.
Original Source: www.afro.who.int
