Investigation Intensified on Illness and Death Clusters in Equateur Province, DRC

Health authorities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo are enhancing investigations into a cluster of illnesses and community deaths in Equateur province. Recent spikes in reported cases necessitate urgent action from the WHO and local health officials. Current efforts focus on improving disease surveillance, providing emergency medical supplies, and addressing the healthcare access challenges in the region.

Health officials in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, alongside experts from the World Health Organization (WHO), are intensifying investigations into a cluster of illnesses and community fatalities in the Equateur province. This follows a notable rise in reported cases of illness and death across various regions of the country over recent months, necessitating thorough investigations to confirm the underlying causes and provide necessary support to affected communities.

Since the onset of 2025, Equateur province has witnessed multiple instances of illness and community deaths. The latest outbreak occurred in the Basankusu health zone, where 141 individuals reported falling ill last week; however, no fatalities occurred in this instance. Earlier in February, the same health zone announced 158 cases and 58 deaths, while Bolamba reported 12 illnesses and 8 deaths in January.

Disease surveillance efforts have identified a total of 1,096 sick individuals and 60 deaths across Basankusu and Bolomba, with symptoms including fever, headache, and gastrointestinal issues. The Democratic Republic of the Congo is currently burdened with numerous simultaneous crises and health challenges, further straining its healthcare system and populace.

In response to this health crisis, a rapid response team comprised of national experts and WHO health emergency personnel has been dispatched to Basankusu and Bolomba. Their efforts aim to investigate the situation thoroughly and identify unusual patterns in illness occurrences. Additionally, experts will enhance disease surveillance and administer treatments for ailments such as malaria and typhoid fever.

Emergency medical supplies, including testing kits, have been provided by WHO, alongside protocols for an improved disease investigation process. Initial laboratory testing produced negative results for both Ebola and Marburg viruses; however, roughly half of the samples indicated positive malaria cases, which are prevalent in the region. Further testing for meningitis is planned, along with analyses of environmental samples.

Geographically, Basankusu and Bolomba are approximately 180 kilometers apart and over 300 kilometers distant from Mbandaka, the provincial capital. This remoteness poses significant challenges to healthcare access, highlighting issues with transportation and infrastructure in the region. WHO, therefore, is supporting local authorities in reinforcing investigative and response efforts, with over 80 community health workers already trained for case detection and reporting purposes.

Continuous efforts to improve testing, case detection, and reporting are essential not only for the present outbreak but also for future occurrences. WHO remains actively engaged on the ground, collaborating with national, provincial, and zonal health authorities to manage the response, deliver critical medical supplies, and stem the spread of illness and other outbreaks in the region.

In conclusion, health officials in the Democratic Republic of the Congo are rigorously investigating a troubling cluster of illnesses and deaths in Equateur province. With support from WHO, they are enhancing disease surveillance efforts, providing treatment, and mobilizing resources to combat the ongoing crisis. Continuous assessment and response measures are crucial for managing the current outbreak and preparing for future health emergencies.

Original Source: www.afro.who.int