Severe Malaria Outbreak Identified in DRC

The Democratic Republic of Congo's health ministry has identified a mystery illness in the southwestern Kwango province as a severe form of malaria. The disease, which presents with symptoms similar to respiratory illnesses, has resulted in 143 deaths and affected 592 people since October, primarily impacting children under 14. Malnutrition in the region has exacerbated the population's vulnerability to the disease. The World Health Organization, which initially suspected a respiratory viral disease, confirmed the diagnosis following positive malaria tests in early samples. Anti-malaria medications are being distributed, and additional health kits are en route. The situation underscores the ongoing challenges in the DRC due to high rates of malaria, malnutrition, and limited access to healthcare.