The unknown mysterious disease that has been circulating in the e southwestern Kwango province is a severe form of malaria, Democratic Republic of Congo’s Health Ministry has confirmed.
The disease has killed more than 140 people so far.
“The mystery has finally been solved. It’s a case of

severe malaria

in the form of a respiratory illness… and weakened by malnutrition,” the health ministry said in a statement.

It also said that 592 cases had been reported since October 2020 with a fatality rate of 6.2%.

Malaria and respiratory manifestations

Respiratory symptoms in malaria result from several mechanisms. Pulmonary edema, caused by increased vascular permeability, can lead to difficulty breathing. Inflammatory responses to the parasite can cause acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), where fluid builds up in the lungs. Severe anemia, a common complication, reduces oxygen-carrying capacity, contributing to respiratory distress. Metabolic acidosis from parasite-induced lactic acid buildup may trigger hyperventilation as the body attempts to restore pH balance.

While classic malaria primarily presents with fever, chills, sweats, and flu-like symptoms, malaria with respiratory involvement includes additional signs such as rapid breathing, chest pain, and severe oxygen desaturation. Pulmonary symptoms are more commonly associated with

Plasmodium falciparum

, the most dangerous malaria species, known for causing severe systemic complications.

Unlike typical malaria, respiratory complications often indicate advanced disease or co-morbidities, such as bacterial pneumonia or non-cardiogenic pulmonary edema. These cases require immediate intervention, often involving oxygen therapy, intensive care, and aggressive antimalarial treatment.
More details on the severe form of malaria that was prevalent in Congo is awaited.