DRC: a flu epidemic of unknown origin affects Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire.

The Congolese Ministry of Health launched an appeal on Saturday to the population, particularly those in the two main cities, Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire, to follow preventive measures in the face of the significant increase in cases of influenza of still unknown origin.

According to a press release from the ministry, between the end of October 2024 and January 1, 2025, nearly 25,000 suspected cases of influenza were reported in the department of Brazzaville, with a weekly average of nearly 2,900 cases.

In response to this situation, the ministry has given instructions to strengthen diagnostics and epidemiological surveillance of influenza, while asking health structures to provide appropriate care to patients and those around them.

Also read: Mpox: around 14,700 confirmed cases in 2024 in Africa

The government also urges the population to remain calm and not to panic, while following essential preventive measures. It is recommended to wash your hands regularly with soap or use a hydroalcoholic solution, avoid close contact with sick people and wear a mask in case of flu symptoms, especially in public places.

With the support of the World Health Organization (WHO), the ministry is setting up an epidemiological surveillance system via sentinel sites throughout the country.

The ministry also calls for solidarity and vigilance from the population, stressing that influenza should not be taken lightly, especially for vulnerable people such as children, the elderly and pregnant women.

Mireille Siapje