Health Experts Urge Vigilance in UK Following Mystery Illness Outbreak in DRC
Health experts alert the UK of a severe outbreak in the DRC, with over 419 cases and 53 deaths. The illness presents hemorrhagic fever-like symptoms, and investigations are ongoing to determine its cause. Experts emphasize the need for vigilance as symptoms may be asymptomatic for periods, allowing transmission. Revenue tests indicate that known viruses such as Ebola have been ruled out, but containment measures are essential.
Health experts have issued warnings for the United Kingdom to maintain vigilance following an outbreak of a mysterious illness in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This illness, displaying symptoms akin to hemorrhagic fevers, has led to the deaths of 53 individuals among 419 reported cases in northwestern Congo over the last five weeks, as stated by the World Health Organization (WHO). Individuals exhibiting symptoms have reportedly succumbed to the illness within just 48 hours of its onset.
Dr. Zania Stamataki, an Associate Professor in Viral Immunology at the University of Birmingham, emphasized the importance of vigilance within the UK, as viral infections can remain asymptomatic for days, allowing transmission before symptoms appear. She asserted, “Infections know no borders and do not respect country lines,” underlining the potential risk of international spread. The public health agency urges that symptoms related to hemorrhagic fever be reported by medical practitioners to the UK Health Security Agency.
Furthermore, healthcare professionals noted that the symptoms of this outbreak include fever, vomiting, and internal bleeding, which are commonly associated with deadly viruses such as Ebola and Marburg. However, testing has successfully ruled out these known viruses, and WHO experts are collaborating with local health authorities to determine the outbreak’s cause and progression. This outbreak commenced in Boloko following the consumption of a bat by three children, leading to their rapid decline.
Dr. Stamataki indicated the outbreak’s characteristics differ from the severe malaria situation witnessed in the DRC last year, calling for ongoing observation as the infection path remains ambiguous. She noted, “The best way to contain the outbreak is to isolate patients and stop travel in affected regions to prevent transmission.”
There remains uncertainty surrounding the potential bat-related origin of the illness, with Dr. Stamataki commenting that if such a virus was responsible, humans might lack immunity. Dr. Amanda Rojek from the Pandemic Sciences Institute at the University of Oxford clarified that multiple diseases could be involved in this outbreak, though tests for Ebola and Marburg have shown negative results, providing some reassurance.
Dr. Rojek further highlighted the critical need for investigation to ascertain the outbreak’s cause, which may involve infectious diseases or exposure to toxic substances. There is particular concern surrounding the consumption of the bat, which could indicate a zoonotic disease. Verification of rumors regarding this consumption will be accomplished by the outbreak investigation team, focusing on potential animal-to-human disease transmission.
The UK Health Security Agency has been reached for comments regarding the outbreak and ongoing investigations, reflecting the critical importance of supporting local healthcare resources and scientific research to better comprehend and manage such outbreaks.
In summary, the United Kingdom is urged to remain vigilant in light of a mysterious illness outbreak in the DRC that has resulted in significant fatalities. Experts stress the importance of reportable symptoms and the potential for international spread. Thus far, lethal viruses including Ebola and Marburg have been ruled out, but the outbreak’s source remains a subject of active investigation, particularly concerning zoonotic transmission. Continued support for local health systems and investigation efforts will be vital to managing the situation effectively.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
