Mystery Disease in Congo: Over 53 Dead, Hundreds Infected

A mysterious illness has swept through northwestern Congo, claiming the lives of over 50 people within 48 hours of symptom onset. The World Health Organization (WHO) is currently investigating the outbreak, which has left health experts baffled and alarmed.

#### Rapid Spread and High Fatality Rate

The outbreak, which began on January 21, has resulted in 419 recorded cases, including 53 deaths. The interval between the onset of symptoms and death has been just 48 hours in the majority of cases, a fact that has raised significant concern among health officials. Serge Ngalebato, medical director of Bikoro Hospital, described the rapid progression of the disease as “really worrying”.

#### Initial Reports and Investigations

The first confirmed cases were reported after three children in Boloko consumed bat meat. Within 48 hours, all three children died after showing symptoms of hemorrhagic fever, a condition that causes severe internal bleeding and organ failure. The WHO Africa office has confirmed the link between the consumption of bat meat and the onset of the disease.

#### Zoonotic Disease Concerns

There have long been concerns about diseases jumping from animals to humans, particularly in regions where wild animals, such as bats, are commonly consumed as food. The outbreak in Boloko follows a well-established pattern of zoonotic diseases that have been known to cause serious outbreaks in Central Africa.

#### Ongoing Investigations

All samples tested so far have been negative for Ebola and other common hemorrhagic fever diseases like Marburg. However, some samples have tested positive for malaria. The WHO continues to investigate the cause of the outbreak and is working to contain its spread.