Malaria Identified as Cause of Fatal Outbreak in Congo’s Equateur Province
A false alarm over a mystery disease in Congo’s Equateur province has been resolved, as health authorities confirm that malaria is the cause of dozens of deaths and hundreds of cases that initially sparked widespread panic.
Over 1,000 Cases and 60 Deaths Recorded in Congo
Since late January 2025, health officials have documented nearly 1,100 cases of infection, with at least 60 fatalities. The outbreak initially raised fears of a new unknown disease, but tests now confirm that malaria is the primary culprit.
Despite malaria being common in the region, the World Health Organization (WHO) has not ruled out other contributing factors.
“Comprehensive epidemiological and clinical assessments, along with additional laboratory analyses, are still required,” the WHO Africa office stated.
Ongoing Investigations Into Other Possible Causes
The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) continues to examine whether water contamination or food sources could have contributed to the spike in cases, along with flu and typhoid fever.
Dr. Ngashi Ngongo of Africa CDC provided further insights during an online briefing:
“Of the 70 blood smear tests conducted, approximately 78% returned positive for malaria, while rapid tests showed about 55% positivity.”
The outbreak, initially feared to be a new epidemic, has now been attributed to a surge in malaria infections across at least five villages in Equateur province.
What’s Next?
Health authorities are scaling up mosquito control efforts, distributing treated bed nets, and ensuring adequate malaria treatment supplies to curb further infections.
Despite the confirmed cause, experts continue to monitor the situation closely to rule out any additional contributing factors.
Source: africanews