The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is closely monitoring a rapidly spreading and unexplained illness in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which has claimed at least 60 lives as of February 27, 2025. The disease, which has affected over 1,300 people, is raising alarms among health authorities worldwide.
In a statement issued Tuesday, the CDC confirmed its active engagement with DRC officials to determine how it can support the ongoing investigation. “CDC is monitoring the situation closely and working with DRC authorities on what assistance we can provide,” a CDC spokesperson said.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that by February 25, 2025, a total of 1,318 individuals had shown symptoms of the mysterious illness, with 53 confirmed deaths. By February 27, the number of deaths had risen to 60, though the WHO did not clarify the reasons for the discrepancy in death tolls reported between the two updates.
The outbreak has primarily affected adolescents and young adults, particularly males, who have been disproportionately impacted. The WHO stated that the disease progresses swiftly, with a median time of just one day from the onset of symptoms to death. Initial symptoms include fever, headache, chills, muscle aches, and more severe manifestations such as vomiting, diarrhea, and bleeding from the nose.
Though the exact cause of the outbreak remains undetermined, the WHO has put forward several working hypotheses, including the possibility of chemical poisoning or a rapid onset of bacterial meningitis. Additionally, the prevalence of malaria in the region, with approximately 50% of the cases testing positive for the disease, has further complicated efforts to pinpoint the cause.
Lab tests have ruled out Ebola and Marburg virus disease as potential causes. Authorities are continuing to explore other possible explanations, including food and water contamination. Investigations into meningitis are also ongoing.
This marks the third major health investigation in recent months in the DRC. The WHO highlighted that previous outbreaks of unexplained illnesses in the country were eventually linked to malaria and respiratory infections.
To aid in the response, the WHO has provided emergency medical supplies, including testing kits, and trained over 80 community health workers to detect and report cases. The organization continues to support local health authorities with enhanced investigation protocols and response measures.
Health officials continue to urge vigilance as they work to identify the origins of the outbreak and contain its spread. The international community is closely watching developments, with further updates expected as investigations progress.
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