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Bundibugyo, Uganda – A mysterious illness dubbed ‘Dinga Dinga’ by locals has reportedly affected approximately 300 people in Uganda’s Bundibugyo district, causing widespread concern. The unexplained illness primarily targets women and girls, presenting with symptoms of fever and severe body shaking, which often hinders the ability to walk.
According to The Monitor, community health teams have been administering antibiotics as a primary treatment. Dr. Kiyita Christopher, the district health officer, emphasized that no fatalities have been reported so far, and recovery typically occurs within a week.
“There is no scientific evidence that herbal medicine can treat this disease. We are using specific treatments, and patients usually recover within a week. I urge locals to seek treatment from health facilities within the district,” Dr. Kiyita stated. He further noted that the illness remains localized, with no reported cases in neighboring regions.
Health authorities have submitted samples for analysis to the Ministry of Health, which has yet to release an official statement. The investigation aims to uncover the root cause of the illness and prevent its potential spread.
Historical Parallels
The mysterious nature of ‘Dinga Dinga’ echoes rare historical incidents, such as the infamous Dancing Plague of 1518 in Strasbourg, France. In that case, people uncontrollably danced for days, with some reportedly dying from exhaustion.
Concurrent Outbreaks in Africa
Meanwhile, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), another unidentified illness has sparked concern. This separate outbreak, characterized by fever, headache, cough, runny nose, and body aches, has affected 394 people in the Panzi health zone and resulted in 30 deaths.
The World Health Organization (WHO), which is actively investigating the situation, suspects potential respiratory pathogens such as influenza or COVID-19, alongside malaria and measles, as possible causes. Laboratory test results are pending.
Health Authorities Remain Vigilant
Health officials across both Uganda and the DRC are working to manage the respective outbreaks, prevent further infections, and identify their causes. The Ugandan Ministry of Health is expected to provide additional updates on ‘Dinga Dinga’ as testing progresses.
For now, Dr. Kiyita encourages affected individuals to seek formal medical care rather than relying on unproven remedies. “Timely medical intervention is key to recovery,” he urged.
Both cases underscore the importance of swift, coordinated investigations to identify emerging illnesses, protect vulnerable populations, and prevent potential public health crises across the region.
