Under the microscope of the world Health Organization is an undiagnosed disease – until now – that appears in a remote area of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
For this reason, the WHO announced today that it is sending experts to support local health authorities. WHO experts are on their way to the affected area of Panji, a location in the southwestern province of Quang Ninh, where they will deliver much-needed medical and diagnostic kits to help analyze the cause of the disease.
The WHO noted that 394 cases and 30 deaths have been reported so far in the Panji region, citing ministry figures.Earlier this week, local authorities announced that the unknown disease killed 143 people in November.
Tests and symptoms
According to the WHO, laboratory tests are being conducted to determine the cause, and the Organization noted that it will share more details as it becomes available.
Those infected with the disease showed flu-like symptoms, including high fever and severe headache, said Remy Sacchi, deputy governor of Quango province, and local health minister Apollinaire Yuba.
The situation is extremely alarming as the number of infections continues to rise, local civil society leader Seforien Mandja told Reuters.A local epidemiologist said women and children are the most affected by this disease.
Italian Professor of Public Health Giovanni Rezza emphasized that “this particular disease is similar, to some extent, to hemorrhagic fever, but also with different obvious symptoms”. most patients who have died from this disease are under the age of 18 and symptoms include severe shortness of breath, fever, anemia and cough. According to the Italian epidemiologist Roberto Burioni, simultaneously occurring, ”it is indeed quite possible that it is a virus”.
► The competent Italian health authorities have decided to increase controls at the country’s airports, on passengers arriving from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. As the Italian press reports, ”at this stage, there is no alarm, but there is concern.”
What measures are being taken to control the outbreak of the emerging disease in the Democratic Republic of Congo?
Interview with Professor Giovanni Rezza on the Emerging Disease in the Democratic Republic of Congo
time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Professor, to discuss this alarming emerging disease in the Panji region of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Can you start by summarizing the current situation regarding this undiagnosed disease?
Professor Giovanni Rezza: Certainly. As of now, the WHO has reported 394 cases and 30 fatalities in the Panji area. The local health authorities have identified flu-like symptoms among those infected, including high fever, severe headache, and other respiratory issues. The situation is critical, particularly since many of the patients who have succumbed to this illness are under the age of 18.
Time.news Editor: It’s deeply concerning. You mentioned that the symptoms resemble those of hemorrhagic fever. Can you explain how this disease differs from established illnesses like Ebola?
Professor Giovanni Rezza: Yes, the symptoms do share similarities with hemorrhagic fever, particularly in terms of fever and respiratory distress. However, our observations indicate varying symptomatology. The patients are presenting severe shortness of breath and anemia, which is somewhat different from typical hemorrhagic diseases. As we conduct more lab tests, we aim to determine whether this is indeed a viral infection, as suggested by my colleague Roberto Burioni.
Time.news Editor: Given the circumstances, what actions are being taken by the WHO and local health authorities to manage and contain this outbreak?
Professor Giovanni Rezza: The WHO has mobilized experts to assist local health authorities in Panji. They are delivering medical and diagnostic kits which are crucial for analyzing the disease’s cause. Moreover, increased surveillance and control measures are being implemented, especially in countries like italy, which has heightened checks at airports for travelers arriving from the Democratic Republic of Congo. While there is no immediate cause for alarm, it’s wise to remain vigilant and monitor the situation closely.
Time.news Editor: What challenges do you see in addressing this emerging disease, particularly in rural areas like Panji?
Professor Giovanni Rezza: One of the primary challenges is limited healthcare infrastructure, which can impede timely diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, misinformation can lead to panic or hinder proper health-seeking behavior among the local population.It’s essential to build trust and deliver accurate health information, especially to vulnerable groups such as women and children, who are reportedly suffering the most.
Time.news Editor: For readers out there looking for practical advice, what can they do to protect themselves and their families during an outbreak like this?
Professor Giovanni Rezza: Firstly, it’s critical to remain informed through reliable sources such as the WHO and local health departments. If travelling to affected regions, practicing good hygiene, such as frequent hand washing and avoiding close contact with anyone displaying symptoms, can help reduce the risk of infection. Lastly, if symptoms arise—particularly flu-like symptoms—seeking medical attention promptly can be crucial for timely diagnosis and management.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Professor Rezza, for sharing your insights and expertise on this pressing issue. We hope for a swift resolution to this outbreak and improved health outcomes for those affected.
Professor Giovanni Rezza: Thank you for having me, and let’s hope our efforts yield effective results soon.