Health officials are investigating an outbreak called "Dinga Dinga," which causes fever and uncontrollable shaking.
Women in Uganda
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Health authorities in Uganda are investigating a mysterious illness, locally referred to as "Dinga Dinga," a term derived from a local dialect meaning "shaking like dancing." The disease, which has emerged in Bundibugyo district, is affecting mainly women and girls, leading to symptoms including fever and uncontrollable body shaking.
The disease, which has reportedly affected around 300 people, presents itself with shaking episodes so intense that walking becomes difficult. Though no fatalities have been recorded, many individuals, particularly women, have sought medical help at Bundibugyo General Hospital for treatment. The exact cause of the "Dinga Dinga" illness is still unknown, as health authorities are investigating
Kiyita Christopher, the district health officer in Uganda, confirmed that while the illness is alarming, it is typically treatable with antibiotics and does not appear to be fatal. “There have been no deaths from the disease, and patients usually recover within a week of receiving treatment,” he said. Although, Kiyita emphasized that the condition should not be self-treated with herbal remedies, which locals have reportedly attempted. "There is no scientific evidence that herbal medicine can treat this disease. We are using specific antibiotic treatments that are effective,” he added.
The disease has yet to spread beyond Bundibugyo, and local health authorities have sent samples to Uganda's Ministry of Health for further analysis. Experts are working to determine the underlying cause of the illness, though its sudden appearance and unique symptoms have raised concerns among residents and health officials alike.
A mysterious illness called "Dinga Dinga" is affecting women and girls in Uganda's Bundibugyo district, causing fever and uncontrollable body shaking.
The disease is generally treatable with antibiotics, and no fatalities have been reported, though affected individuals are seeking care at local hospitals.
Health authorities are investigating the cause of the illness, which has not spread beyond Bundibugyo, and are urging the public to avoid unproven herbal remedies.
The phenomenon has raised a wave of curiosity and concern, not just in Uganda, but in the wider medical community. While the disease appears to have a relatively high recovery rate, health officials are urging the public to seek proper medical treatment rather than rely on unverified alternative remedies.
As investigations continue, health authorities are keeping a close watch on the situation, aiming to prevent the spread of the illness and gain a clearer understanding of its origins. The public has been reassured that no cases have been reported in neighboring regions, and that health teams are actively monitoring the situation.
With the growing number of reported cases, scientists and medical professionals are hopeful that further analysis will soon provide clarity on the cause of this mysterious affliction. For now, local health services remain on high alert as they continue to treat affected individuals and monitor any potential new cases.
Undiagnosed Disease Outbreak in DRC's Panzi Health Zone: 406 Cases, 31 Deaths
Between October 24 and December 5, 2024, the Panzi health zone in Kwango Province, DRC, reported 406 cases of an undiagnosed illness, resulting in 31 deaths, mainly among children under five. Symptoms include fever, headache, cough, body aches, and runny nose, with severe cases linked to malnutrition. Laboratory tests are underway, with pneumonia, malaria, measles, and COVID-19 among the suspected causes. Malaria, a common illness in the region, is also being considered as a contributor.
Rapid response teams have been deployed to improve case management, enhance surveillance, and collect samples for testing. Although, the region’s remoteness, security issues, and limited health infrastructure have complicated efforts. Health authorities are working to strengthen diagnostics, control transmission, and engage the community in early medical care, with the high fatality rate among children making the situation urgent.
Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo are both facing disease outbreaks with unidentified causes. In Uganda, the "Dinga Dinga" illness has affected women and girls in Bundibugyo district, with no fatalities but concerns about its cause. In the DRC’s Panzi health zone, a similar illness has resulted in 406 cases and 31 deaths, mainly among children. Health authorities in both countries are investigating these outbreaks, deploying response teams, and conducting laboratory tests. These events underscore the need for improved diagnostic capacity, timely medical treatment, and better coordination to manage and contain the spread of these diseases.
