Scientists managed to identify a previously unknown disease that emerged in western Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as a severe form of malaria, the Ministry of Public Health of the Democratic Republic of the Congo reported.
The disease occurs in the form of a respiratory disease, the ministry stated, noting that most of those who fell ill were physically weakened by chronic malnutrition.
The outbreak occurred in the fall in the Congolese province of Kwango. The disease, declared unknown, was characterized by high fever and severe headaches. Scientists, including specialists from the World Health Organization, have been trying to establish its origin and modes of transmission since late October. Now their efforts have been crowned with success, according to the authorities.
According to official data from the Congolese government, the total number of cases is 593, with 36 deaths. In turn, the authorities of the Kwango province reported the death of 143 people.