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A mysterious disease with flu-like symptoms has killed 79 people and sickened 376 in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The illness, of unknown origin, has been detected in Kwango province in southwestern Congo. Symptoms include fever, headache, nasal congestion, cough, difficulty breathing, and anemia. Local authorities fear the death toll may be as high as 143. The health ministry has warned against handling remains of those with similar symptoms without authorized health authorities and has urged people to report any suspicious illnesses or deaths. Basic hygiene practices have also been advised.
Emergency public health officials have been dispatched to the region, and the World Health Organization is working with local authorities to investigate the disease. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are providing technical assistance to local response teams.
Epidemiologist Anne Rimoin emphasizes the importance of not panicking until more information is available. She notes that the limited health care infrastructure and underlying health issues in the population could make diagnosing the illness complicated. At this point, it is unclear whether the illness is influenza, Ebola, Marburg, meningitis, or measles. More information is needed to determine the cause of the mysterious disease.
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