Unmasking the Mystery: Severe Malaria Outbreak in DRC

The Democratic Republic of Congo's health ministry confirmed a previously unidentified disease as a severe form of malaria in the Panzi health zone. It caused 143 deaths in Kwango province last November. 592 cases have been reported since October, with a 6.2% fatality rate.

The Democratic Republic of Congo's health ministry has identified a mysterious disease in the Panzi health zone as a severe form of malaria. This revelation comes after weeks of uncertainty following a significant number of deaths.

Local authorities had reported 143 fatalities in Kwango province last November, initially blaming an unidentified ailment. However, a statement from the health ministry reveals the cause as a severe respiratory form of malaria, exacerbated by malnutrition.

According to the ministry, 592 cases have been documented since October, with a concerning fatality rate of 6.2% pointing to an urgent need for intervention.

(With inputs from agencies.)