Mysterious Illness Claims Lives in Northwestern Congo

A mysterious illness in northwestern Congo has killed over 50 people. The World Health Organisation reports the onset to death within 48 hours for most cases. The outbreak began after children consumed bats, raising concerns about animal-to-human disease transmission. Samples tested negative for common diseases, some showed malaria.

A mysterious and deadly illness has emerged in northwestern Congo, claiming more than 50 lives, according to the World Health Organisation and local medical authorities.

The rapid progression from the onset of symptoms to death, typically within 48 hours, has raised significant alarm, Serge Ngalebato, medical director of Bikoro Hospital, reported to The Associated Press.

The outbreak officially began on January 21, with 419 cases recorded thus far, including 53 fatalities. Initial reports from Boloko suggest the illness could have originated from bat consumption, though tests for typical hemorrhagic diseases have returned negative results, with some cases testing positive for malaria.