Unknown disease strikes Lubero: nine deaths in two weeks

An unidentified illness is causing alarm in the Bapere sector of Lubero territory in North Kivu, with at least nine people dying in the past two weeks. The outbreak is concentrated in Mangumo, a mining area located approximately 250 kilometers from Butembo.

Samuel Kagheni, president of the local civil society, reported that the victims exhibit symptoms of diarrhea before succumbing to the illness. "We are talking about nine deaths so far, and there are also reports of other sick individuals who are agonizing. They have diarrhea, and that is what leads, of course, to their death," Kagheni stated. He expressed concern that many victims are resorting to traditional treatments without a clear diagnosis, especially given the area's remote location, which is a four to five-day walk away.

Residents are fleeing the affected zone, seeking refuge in nearby areas such as Manguredjipa, Ndjiapanda, or Lubero town. Kagheni urged health authorities to investigate the disease promptly to identify its cause and prevent further spread.

Sources within the Manguredjipa health zone confirmed that an investigation team has already arrived in Mangumo to collect samples. Another team, tasked with patient care, is also en route to the area. The situation remains concerning as health officials work to understand and contain the mysterious outbreak.

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We are talking about nine deaths so far, and there are also reports of other sick individuals who are agonizing. They have diarrhea, and that is what leads, of course, to their death.