WHO Identifies Respiratory Viruses as Likely Cause of Mystery Illness in Congo

The World Health Organization (WHO) has released an update on the ongoing mystery illness affecting the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), indicating that it is likely caused by respiratory viruses, with exacerbating factors of malaria and malnutrition.

This conclusion contrasts with earlier reports suggesting that severe malaria was the primary cause of the illness, previously referred to as “disease X.”

Laboratory tests conducted on 89 patient samples found that 64 (72%) were positive for common respiratory viruses, such as influenza A, rhinoviruses, and SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19. Additionally, more than 60% of the samples tested positive for malaria, which is prevalent in the DRC. Malaria, particularly caused by Plasmodium falciparum, remains a major health concern in the region, contributing to approximately 12% of global malaria cases and deaths. Malaria-related illness is particularly high among children in the DRC.

The WHO’s report also provides a snapshot of the current disease situation. As of the latest update, 891 cases and 48 deaths have been reported, with the highest burden observed among children under five years of age. About half of the reported cases and deaths are in this age group, highlighting the vulnerability of young children. Among adults, 66% of reported cases have been in women, a trend that may be linked to the higher role of women in caring for sick children at home.

The severity of the disease in children is thought to be compounded by widespread malnutrition. The affected area in Kwango Province has been facing deteriorating food security, leading to increasing levels of acute malnutrition. The WHO estimates that 4.5 million children under five and over 3.5 million pregnant or breastfeeding women in the DRC are at risk of severe malnutrition. The intersection of malnutrition and infectious diseases creates additional challenges in managing the health crisis.

While the WHO’s report confirms that the mystery disease is likely linked to common respiratory viruses, further testing is needed to gain a clearer understanding of its spread and impact. The current information suggests that the illness is not caused by a novel pathogen but highlights how known infectious diseases can be more severe in vulnerable populations, particularly where food insecurity and malaria are prevalent.

The WHO has assessed the risk to the local community as high, but the national, regional, and global risks remain low. Continued surveillance and testing in the area are crucial to monitoring the situation and preventing further spread.