KINSHASA, Congo — Local officials have reported that an unidentified illness has resulted in at least 67 fatalities over a two-week period in the southwestern region of Congo. The deaths occurred in the Panzi health zone of Kwango province, with the recording period noted as between November 10 and November 25. Symptoms associated with this mysterious disease include fever, headaches, coughing, and anemia, as detailed by health minister Apollinaire Yumba during a press conference over the weekend.

Deputy provincial governor Rémy Saki provided updated figures, stating that the death toll may range from 67 to 143 individuals. He emphasized the urgency of the situation, revealing that an epidemiological team is set to arrive in the area to collect samples and diagnose the underlying issue.

In response to the outbreak, Minister Yumba urged residents to take precautions and avoid any contact with deceased individuals to mitigate the risk of contamination. He also appealed to both national and international stakeholders for medical supplies to effectively manage the escalating health crisis.

The situation in Congo is exacerbated by the ongoing mpox outbreak, which has seen over 47,000 suspected infections and more than 1,000 potential deaths attributed to the disease, according to data from the World Health Organization. The combination of these health challenges highlights the critical need for immediate assistance and intervention in the affected areas.