0
0
Kinshasa, DR Congo – The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised concerns over a suspected poisoning event in western Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo), where an unexplained illness outbreak has led to nearly 1,100 reported cases and 60 deaths since the start of the year.
According to WHO, affected individuals in Equateur province have presented symptoms including fever, headaches, joint pain, and body aches. Initial tests have ruled out hemorrhagic fevers such as Marburg and Ebola, prompting investigators to explore alternative causes.
Possible Poisoning Event
Dr. Mike Ryan, WHO’s emergencies director, stated during an online press conference that the illness appears more consistent with a toxic exposure rather than an infectious disease outbreak.
“It appears very much more like a toxic type event, either from a biologic perspective like meningitis or from chemical exposure,” Ryan explained.
Local authorities suspect contamination of a water source in a village could be a contributing factor. WHO officials are closely monitoring the situation and conducting further investigations to pinpoint the exact cause.
Rising Cases and Previous Outbreaks
WHO figures indicate that 158 cases and 58 deaths were reported earlier this month in Equateur’s Basankusu zone. An additional 141 cases were recorded last week in the same area, though no further fatalities have been confirmed. The nearby Bolamba zone has also seen 12 cases, including eight deaths.
The latest health scare adds to DR Congo’s existing public health challenges. In recent months, the country has faced outbreaks of mpox and malaria, compounded by high malnutrition rates and inadequate healthcare infrastructure.
Dr. Ryan lamented that the international community often loses interest once a crisis is determined to pose no immediate global threat.
“Once we establish that it’s not some major new Earth-killing virus, we all lose interest,” he said, highlighting the need for continued attention and support.
Conflict and Health Risks
The outbreak comes amid ongoing violence in DR Congo’s eastern regions, where armed groups—some allegedly backed by neighboring Rwanda—have taken control of key areas. The instability further complicates efforts to address health crises in an already vulnerable population.
The WHO continues to work with local authorities and health experts to contain the outbreak and determine the source of the suspected poisoning. Residents in affected areas have been urged to exercise caution, particularly with water consumption, while investigations continue.
Disclaimer: This article is based on preliminary reports from the World Health Organization and other sources. Further investigations are ongoing, and conclusions may evolve as new evidence emerges.
