What is 'Dinga Dinga'—mystery body shaking disease spreading in Uganda
A mysterious disease called "Dinga Dinga," which translates to "shaking like dancing," has emerged in Uganda, mostly affecting women and children. The disease was first detected in the Bundibugyo district in early 2023 and is now being investigated by health authorities. So far, around 300 people have shown symptoms of this disease, including excessive body shaking, high fever, extreme weakness, and a feeling of paralysis.
Patient experiences and treatment prospects of 'Dinga Dinga'
Patients suffering from "Dinga Dinga" have called their experiences harrowing. 18-year-old Patience Katusiime recounted her experience saying, "I felt weak and got paralyzed, with my body shaking uncontrollably whenever I tried to walk." Despite the intensity of symptoms, no deaths have been attributed to this disease. District health officer Dr. Kiyita Christopher said most patients recover within a week with antibiotics and discouraged herbal remedies due to lack of scientific evidence.
Ongoing investigations and public health campaigns
In a bid to find the cause of "Dinga Dinga," samples of affected individuals have been sent to Uganda's Ministry of Health for further analysis. Meanwhile, public health campaigns are being run in Bundibugyo to educate residents about the disease and discourage the use of unverified treatments. These efforts seek to contain the spread of this mysterious illness while providing medical support to the affected.
Neighboring DRC battles with another mysterious illness
As Uganda battles "Dinga Dinga," another mysterious illness called "disease X" has emerged in the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Since late October, the disease has led to at least 79 deaths out of 406 reported cases. "Disease X" is characterized by fever, headache, cough, and breathing difficulties. Laboratory tests are underway to determine its cause as health authorities continue to monitor and treat affected individuals.
