Situation at a Glance
A recent update from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) highlights an ongoing health crisis in Kwango province, centered around acute respiratory infections (ARIs) complicated by malaria. Initially reported on November 29, this outbreak has disproportionately affected children under five years of age. The situation has led to enhanced epidemiological surveillance and preliminary laboratory findings that suggest a combination of common respiratory viruses and malaria, exacerbated by acute malnutrition, have driven severe infections and deaths.
Description of the Situation
Since December 8, 485 additional suspected cases and 17 new deaths have been recorded in Panzi health zone, bringing the total to 891 cases and 48 deaths reported up to December 16. Enhanced surveillance was initiated following the detection of a rise in deaths related to febrile illness marked by acute respiratory symptoms and anaemia. Though not atypical for the rainy season, the increase in mortality triggered the outbreak alert.
The case definition broadened to include any person with fever, cough, body weakness, and other symptoms such as chills, headache, and difficulty breathing. This comprehensive approach aimed to capture a wide range of diseases for further laboratory analysis.
Children under five, amounting to 47% of cases and 54% of deaths, bear a significant portion of the burden due to their higher vulnerability to such conditions. Preliminary laboratory tests indicate that 62% of individuals tested positive for malaria, while common respiratory viruses, including influenza A, rhinoviruses, SARS-CoV-2, and adenovirus, were also prevalent.
The affected area has experienced deteriorating food security, with increasing levels of acute malnutrition, particularly among children. The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) indicates serious acute malnutrition in the region, projected to worsen in the coming months, reaching a critical threshold.
Public Health Response
Leadership and Coordination:
- Daily coordination meetings at the national level, involving provincial teams, facilitate ongoing planning.
- A rapid response team (RRT) has been deployed from Kinshasa to strengthen local efforts.
Surveillance:
- A clear case definition guides data collection and surveillance efforts.
- Active case searches continue in health facilities and the community.
- Community deaths are being investigated to understand vulnerability factors.
Case Management:
- Medical supplies and equipment have been provided to health facilities.
- Training efforts aim to improve care delivery for patients.
- Oxygen concentrators are being installed to support patient care.
Laboratory Support:
- Laboratory equipment and reagents have been supplied for sample testing.
- Rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) for malaria and COVID-19 have been deployed.
Risk Communication and Community Engagement:
- Campaigns are in place to raise public awareness and encourage safe practices.
Infection Prevention and Control:
- Measures are being strengthened to reduce transmission within health facilities.
Logistics:
- Support is provided for transportation, medical supplies, and communication infrastructure.
WHO Risk Assessment
The WHO African Region accounts for a significant portion of global malaria cases and deaths, with children under five particularly vulnerable. The current outbreak mirrors expected seasonal trends, complicated by exacerbated malnutrition.
The IPC classification for acute food insecurity in Kwango province has worsened, indicating a higher risk of severe acute malnutrition. These factors contribute to the higher mortality observed in the affected population.
While mortality is expected to increase with the rainy season, this event underscores the critical need to strengthen health care access, improve malnutrition support, and enhance malaria control efforts.
WHO Advice
Coordination and Communication:
Enhanced coordination and improved communication infrastructure are essential for a unified response to the outbreak.
Surveillance:
Active case searches and community-based surveillance should continue, focusing on areas with reported deaths and family clusters.
Clinical Management:
Adequate supply of essential medications, access to oxygen therapy, and training for healthcare workers are crucial for effective case management.
Infection Prevention and Control:
Increased focus on infection prevention and control measures will safeguard health facilities and improve patient safety.
Food Security Integration:
Intersectoral coordination is vital to address the complex relationship between malnutrition, disease, and food security.
Risk Communication:
Risk communication and community engagement should focus on educating the public and addressing misinformation.
Logistical and Security Considerations:
Strengthening logistical support and developing contingency plans for security challenges will ensure continuity in response activities.
Conclusion
The acute respiratory infections complicated by malaria in Kwango province highlight the severe burden of common infectious diseases in communities facing malnutrition and food insecurity. This event underscores the critical need for strengthened health care access, integrated food security strategies, and improved malnutrition support to mitigate the impact of such crises.
Your continued support is essential as we work to address these challenges. Please share this article to raise awareness and spread important health information. Leave your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
Join our community to stay informed on the latest health news and updates. Subscribe now or share on social media.