7-12-2024 (BANGKOK) Thai health authorities have ramped up surveillance measures following reports of a mysterious disease outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo that has claimed 79 lives and infected hundreds since late October 2023.
The Thai Ministry of Public Health has issued a nationwide alert to its agencies, despite categorising Thailand as a low-risk country. Dr Opas Kankawinpong, the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, emphasised that whilst the risk remains minimal, heightened monitoring protocols have been implemented across all entry points.
“Our primary focus remains on border checkpoints and airports, which serve as crucial screening points for international arrivals,” Dr Kankawinpong stated. Notably, Suvarnabhumi Airport, Thailand’s main international gateway, has yet to implement specific screening measures.
The outbreak has triggered varying responses across Asia. Hong Kong International Airport has enhanced screening procedures for all flights arriving via African transit hubs, whilst Japanese authorities have advised against non-essential travel to affected regions.
In DR Congo, health officials are racing against time to identify the mysterious illness, dubbed ‘Disease X’. Dr Jean Kaseya, director of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, revealed that nearly half of the 376 reported cases involve children under five years old.
The outbreak, first detected on 24 October in the Panzi health zone of Kwango province, presents with symptoms including fever, respiratory difficulties, headache, and anaemia. Dr Dieudonne Muamba, director-general of the National Public Health Institute, suggests the pathogen is likely airborne, noting the outbreak coincides with increased influenza activity in the region.
Laboratory analysis is currently underway at a national facility in Kinshasa, with results expected imminently. The five-week delay in initial reporting has raised concerns about potential widespread transmission.
