European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control Reports an Outbreak of an Unknown Origin in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
On 4 December 2024, the public health authorities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo issued a press release about a reported outbreak of unknown origin in the Panzi health zone, Kwango province.
According to the press release, since 24 October 376 people have been affected with 79 deaths, mainly affecting children. The signs and symptoms reported include fever, headaches, cough, dyspnoea, anaemia, and rhinorrhoea.
Currently, the health authorities in the DRC are investigating the outbreak. The Ministry of Health has issued preliminary recommendations to the affected population: avoid mass gatherings, report suspected cases through a hotline, and practice proper hand hygiene.
Assessment and Actions
Given that the cause of the disease remains unknown, the ECDC states that it is currently impossible to assess the risk posed by the outbreak to the European Union/European Economic Area countries. The ECDC continues to monitor the situation and maintains contact with African health authorities.
The National Public Health Centre is closely monitoring updates from the ECDC regarding the outbreak and will promptly inform the Lithuanian public if new information about potential impacts or risks to European countries emerges.