Surging malaria-complicated acute respiratory infections among the malnourished DRC children amidst ongoing Mpox: a public health threat perception to address

Abstract

Abstract The Democratic Republic of the Congo reported a total of 891 confirmed cases of malaria-complicated acute respiratory infections recently, between 24 October and 16 December 2024. The country also reported 48 deaths during the period. All the cases were reported from 25 health areas in the Panzi health zone in Kwango province, out of the total 30 health areas. Children under the age of five were disproportionally affected, representing 47% of all the cases and 54% of all the deaths. The widespread and seemingly unending civil conflicts in the DRC caused unprecedented humanitarian crises. Social order, better logistics and a contingency plan may be needed to ensure response activities non-stop and the safety of response personnel. Owing to climate impacts, food insecurity, armed conflicts and the 2024 mpox epidemic, nearly 27 million needed support. Ongoing mpox epidemic Clade I strain overwhelms the healthcare system there. An integrated public health approach is needed to address the high public health risk for the affected community in the region and ensure a reduction in mortality. This correspondence highlights the case definitions and its burden, public health responses and challenges to mitigate effectively.

Keywords

• Acute respiratory infections
• Malaria
• Children
• Democratic Republic of Congo
• Threat perception