WHO provides oxygen concentrators, medicines, lab supplies amid malaria outbreak in Congo
WHO Sends Help to Fight Malaria in Congo's Panzi Health Zone
The World Health Organization (WHO) has taken action to combat a malaria outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo. On Friday, WHO sent oxygen concentrators, lab supplies, rapid malaria tests, and essential medicines to hospitals and health centers in the Panzi health zone and other affected areas.
WHO's African Region shared on social media that these efforts aim to strengthen healthcare services in the country, ensuring that those affected by malaria receive the necessary care. The organization is also working to identify the causes of the illness.
The Congo Health Ministry reported that the southwestern Kwango province is experiencing a severe form of malaria, which manifests as a respiratory illness. Malnutrition in the area has made the local population more susceptible to diseases.
In November, local authorities reported 143 deaths in the Panzi health zone, with 592 cases recorded since October and a fatality rate of 6.2%. This is not the only health challenge Congo faces; earlier this year, WHO declared a global health emergency due to an Mpox outbreak. In September, Congo received its first shipment of Mpox vaccines from Bavarian Nordic, a Danish pharmaceutical company. This vaccine is the only one approved for use in Europe and the United States and is available only for adults.
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WHO
WHO stands for the World Health Organization. It is a special agency of the United Nations that works to improve health and fight diseases all over the world.
Malaria
Malaria is a disease caused by a parasite, which is often spread to humans through the bites of infected mosquitoes. It can cause fever, chills, and other serious health problems.
Congo
Congo, or the Democratic Republic of Congo, is a large country located in Central Africa. It is known for its rich natural resources and diverse wildlife.
Panzi Health Zone
The Panzi Health Zone is a specific area within the Democratic Republic of Congo where healthcare services are provided. It is currently facing a malaria outbreak.
Oxygen concentrators
Oxygen concentrators are machines that help people breathe by providing them with extra oxygen. They are used in hospitals and clinics to treat patients with breathing problems.
Rapid malaria tests
Rapid malaria tests are quick tests that help doctors find out if someone has malaria. They are important for diagnosing and treating the disease quickly.
Kwango province
Kwango province is a region in the southwestern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is currently experiencing a severe malaria outbreak.
Malnutrition
Malnutrition happens when a person does not get enough nutrients from their food. It can make people weak and more likely to get sick.
Mpox
Mpox, also known as monkeypox, is a rare disease similar to smallpox. It can spread from animals to humans and causes fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes.
Bavarian Nordic
Bavarian Nordic is a company that makes vaccines. They provided vaccines to help fight the Mpox outbreak in Congo.
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