The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is grappling with an outbreak of an unknown illness that has claimed over 50 lives in the past five weeks.
The illness was first identified in three children who consumed a bat and died within 48 hours. Since then, 419 cases have been recorded, with symptoms including fever, vomiting, and internal bleeding.
Health authorities have ruled out common haemorrhagic fevers like Ebola and Marburg, with some cases testing positive for malaria.
Travel advisories for the DRC have been heightened due to the volatile security situation, ongoing conflict, and the threat of terrorism and kidnapping.
Governments, including Australia and the United States, have issued "Do Not Travel" advisories, urging citizens to avoid the country due to the risks of armed conflict, violent protests, and high crime rates. Non-emergency U.S. government employees and their families have been ordered to leave the country.
The socio-political landscape in the DRC remains turbulent, with escalating conflict in the eastern regions involving the M23 armed group. This group has controlled key cities like Goma and Bukavu. The conflict has resulted in thousands of deaths and significant civilian displacement.
Former President Joseph Kabila has criticised the current administration under President Felix Tshisekedi for poor governance and human rights violations, contributing to instability.
Amidst these challenges, the DRC continues to face a deepening humanitarian crisis, with shortages of food, water, and medical supplies exacerbating the situation.
The international community, including the United Nations, calls for urgent measures to address the crisis and ensure the safety and well-being of the affected populations.
