The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is on high alert over the emergence of an unknown disease that has killed more than 70 people. DRC Public Health Minister Roger Kamba said today that a disease “of still unknown origin” has been reported in the Panzi area of Kwango Province. He said the disease has been described as an epidemic and has affected 382 people since October. The Minister said people have presented symptoms similar to the flu. He also said around 300 people have recovered. Meanwhile, local media reported that 131 deaths have been recorded since November 10. According to Mr. Kamba, based on the hypothesis, the emergence of this disease coincides with the seasonal flu, which occurs from October to March and peaks in December. He said specialized teams have been sent to the field to identify the nature of the disease.