What Is Disease X? Know Symptoms, Causes & Prevention Of The New Health Threat

Disease X, a mysterious viral illness in Africa, has caused over 140 deaths and primarily affects children. The WHO is foxed by the mysterious ailment, the origins of which are unknown.

Disease X, a term dreaded in Africa, is ringing the alarm bells in Africa. The mysterious illness has already claimed over 140 lives, with concerns escalating due to its rapid spread and limited available information. Seven months ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) issued an alert regarding Disease X. However, awareness remains low due to the scarcity of data about this emerging threat.

How Dangerous Is Disease X?

Due to the lack of detailed information, the illness has yet to be assigned a specific name. It is believed to be caused by a viral agent. First brought to attention in 2018, Disease X initially presented flu-like symptoms in patients, followed by death within days. The mode of transmission remains unknown, adding to the concern and uncertainty surrounding the disease.

Who Is Most At Risk?

The majority of cases have been reported in the Democratic Republic of Congo in Central Africa, with children being the most affected demographic. According to the African Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), out of the 386 confirmed cases so far, nearly 200 involve children under the age of five. Although the exact cause of the outbreak is unclear, the disease likely spreads from one person to another, potentially via respiratory transmission. The WHO has sent medications to affected regions in Africa, but fears persist that the disease could escalate into a major crisis.

Symptoms of Disease X

What makes Disease X mysterious and dangerous is that its symptoms are similar to that of flu in the initial stages. The symptoms include:

• High fever


• Severe headache


• Body aches


• Difficulty breathing


• Fever


• Headache


• Cough


• Runny nose


• Anaemia

Preventive Measures Against Disease X

• Avoid visiting affected areas.


• Seek medical attention immediately if flu-like symptoms appear.


• Refrain from eating without washing your hands thoroughly.


• Maintain strict hygiene and avoid negligence in food consumption.


• Community awareness.

As per various media reports, health experts suspect that it could be linked to several known infectious diseases. Investigations are ongoing to rule out potential causes such as acute pneumonia, influenza, COVID-19, measles, malaria, haemolytic uremic syndrome caused by Escherichia coli (E.Coli).