ABVC Disease Alert Issue No. 24 | Unknown Febrile Illness in Democratic Republic of the Congo

An unidentified, flu-like disease has emerged in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), specifically in the Kwango province, leading to significant fatalities. From October 24 to December 4, 2024, at least 79 deaths have been reported. Symptoms associated with this illness include high fever, headaches, cough, nasal congestion, respiratory distress, and anemia. The majority of those affected are young individuals aged between 15 and 18 years. The Ministry of Public Health, Hygiene and Social Welfare is concerned about the rising number of infections, which now exceeds 300 cases, and has launched an emergency respons