Causes of ‘Disease X’ in DR Congo Identified

By Adebowale Bello, B.Tech Microbiology, Freelance Health Writer. Editorially reviewed by the DLHATeam.

DR Congo map showing Kwango Province

A combination of common respiratory infections and malaria, compounded by acute malnutrition has emerged as the main causes of a recent fever-linked (febrile) disease outbreak reported in the Panzi Health Zone, in Kwango Province of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Initially dubbed “Disease X,” this crisis highlights the fragile state of healthcare systems in many African nations.

The Scale of the Outbreak

The outbreak, first reported in November 2024, spiralled into a public health emergency involving 25 out of the 30 areas in Panzi Health zone of the DR Congo. By December 16, 2024, health authorities recorded 891 suspected cases of febrile illnesses with respiratory symptoms, resulting in 48 deaths.

Laboratory analyses has confirmed that a mix of respiratory viruses—including Influenza A, SARS-CoV-2 and Rhinoviruses—alongside severe malaria (Plasmodium falciparum), was the cause of the outbreak.

Widespread malnutrition worsened the crisis, turning otherwise manageable infections into life-threatening conditions. Children under five years old, already vulnerable due to their underdeveloped immune systems, account for 47% of reported cases and 54% of the deaths. Key fatal symptoms include difficulty breathing, anaemia and acute malnutrition.  

From July to December 2024, food security in Panzi has plummeted to crisis levels. Projections indicate further deterioration, fueling a vicious cycle where malnutrition weakens immune defenses, thereby increasing the severity of infections. Without immediate intervention, this cycle will result in devastating outcomes for the community.

Challenges of Healthcare Access in Panzi, DR Congo  

Healthcare delivery in Panzi, DR Congo faces several critical obstacles:

• Limited Laboratory Capacity: The absence of functional laboratories hampers timely diagnosis.

• Medication Shortages: Inconsistent drug supplies mean timely treatment is often unavailable.

• Financial Barriers: Many families cannot afford necessary medications.

• Workforce Shortages: A lack of trained healthcare professionals has overwhelmed the system.

What is Being Done to Ease the Crisis

Despite the grim statistics, measures are underway to ease the outbreak.

Rapid response teams from the Ministry of Health, the World Health Organization (WHO) and other partners are working tirelessly to provide medical supplies, improve case management and engage communities in preventive measures. Six oxygen concentrators have been deployed, while public awareness campaigns are promoting behaviours that reduce disease spread.

What Needs to be Done to Prevent Future Occurrences

To prevent similar outbreaks in the future, the following actions are needed:  

• Strengthen Malaria Control: With Africa bearing 94% of global malaria cases, efforts to distribute insecticide-treated nets, improve access to antimalarial drugs and roll out community education campaigns must intensify.

• Combat Malnutrition: Immediate food aid, nutrition programs and interventions targeting pregnant women and children under five are critical. Preventing severe malnutrition is vital to breaking the disease-malnutrition cycle.

• Enhance Healthcare Infrastructure: Building laboratories in remote areas, training healthcare workers and ensuring an uninterrupted supply of essential medicines can bridge critical gaps.

• Community Engagement: Educating communities on preventive health measures and fostering trust in healthcare systems can help prevent disease transmission and encourage timely treatment-seeking behaviour.

Wrap Up

The situation in Panzi serves as a cautionary tale for the continent. Across Africa, common illnesses like malaria, pneumonia and diarrhoea cause preventable deaths daily. However, the impact of these diseases is worsened by malnutrition, poor sanitation and weak healthcare systems.

African nations must prioritize investments in public health. Strengthening disease surveillance, ensuring access to basic and affordable healthcare in timely fashion, and addressing food insecurity are not just moral necessities - they are essential to safeguarding future generations.

Source: World Health Organization Newsroom

Related:

'Disease X’ Outbreak in DR Congo: What You Need to Know

Published: January 1,2025

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