A mysterious illness killed more than 50 people in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), with most victims dying within 48 hours of showing symptoms, health officials have reported.
The outbreak, first reported on January 21, has resulted in 419 cases and 53 deaths.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified it as a significant public health threat, citing concerns over its rapid progression and fatality rate.
Suspected origin and early cases
Authorities believe the outbreak started in the town of Boloko, where three children reportedly ate a dead bat.
The children developed severe symptoms and died within two days.
Medical experts suspect the illness is a form of hemorrhagic fever, which can cause fever, internal bleeding, headaches, and joint pain.
“That’s what’s really worrying,” said Serge Ngalebato, medical director of Bikoro Hospital in the DRC, referring to the disease’s speed and severity.
Ebola, one of the most well-known hemorrhagic fevers, has not been detected in this outbreak, according to initial testing.
A second wave of cases emerged in the town of Bomate on Feb. 9. Authorities have tested samples from 13 patients, all of which returned negative results for Ebola and Marburg virus.
However, some samples tested positive for malaria.
The WHO reported that the fatality rate of the illness is 12.3%, significantly higher than the early fatality rate of COVID-19.
Experts warn that the outbreak could spread further due to the region’s remote location and fragile healthcare system.
