Health Experts Warn UK to Remain Vigilant Amid DRC Outbreak of Mystery Illness
Health experts are cautioning the UK to stay vigilant after a mysterious illness outbreak in the DRC has resulted in over 50 deaths. The WHO reported 419 cases, primarily linked to symptoms resembling hemorrhagic fever. Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause and transmission methods.
Health experts have issued a warning for the United Kingdom to remain alert following a mysterious illness outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) that has resulted in over 50 fatalities. As reported by the World Health Organization (WHO), there have been 419 cases, with 53 deaths recorded within five weeks, occurring soon after the onset of symptoms.
Dr. Zania Stamataki, an Associate Professor in Viral Immunology at the University of Birmingham, emphasized the importance of vigilance. This is critical as viral infections may remain dormant before symptoms appear, potentially leading to unnoticed transmission. She stated, “Infections know no borders and do not respect country lines.”
Vigilance is necessary in the UK and other countries, with symptoms resembling those of hemorrhagic fever being closely monitored. Dr. Stamataki urged that these symptoms should be reported to the UK Health Security Agency through a registered medical practitioner.
The WHO’s preliminary investigations pointed to alarming symptoms, including fever and internal bleeding, seen in diseases like Ebola and Marburg. However, current tests have ruled out these viruses, leading to ongoing investigations by local health authorities supported by the WHO.
The outbreak commenced in Boloko after three children reportedly consumed bat meat and showed severe symptoms shortly thereafter. It has drawn comparisons to previous DRC outbreaks linked to malaria, with an emphasis on the vulnerability of children and the impact of malnutrition on mortality rates.
While the exact cause of the outbreak remains unknown, Dr. Stamataki noted, “If the infection originated from a virus that came from a bat, this tells us that it is unlikely that we have pre-existing immunity to this new infection for humans.” This scenario highlights the potential severity of the current situation.
Dr. Amanda Rojek from the University of Oxford indicated that investigations would clarify the outbreak’s nature, considering both infectious and non-infectious factors. Verification of reports regarding bat consumption is crucial, as they could signify a zoonotic transmission risk.
Local healthcare support and scientific research are deemed essential for effectively managing the outbreak. The UK Health Security Agency has been approached for further comments regarding this situation.
In summary, health experts stress the need for continued vigilance in light of the mysterious illness outbreak in the DRC. Identifying the cause of the outbreak and understanding its transmission will be crucial to preventing possible spread beyond Congo.
In conclusion, health officials are urging precautionary measures in the UK following a deadly outbreak in the DRC. The mysterious illness’s symptoms resemble hemorrhagic fever, leading to 53 deaths among 419 cases. Ongoing investigations are necessary to determine the outbreak’s origins while emphasizing continued vigilance and reporting of symptoms to prevent further spread.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
