WHO Investigates Mysterious Illness Killing Over 50 in Congo
A mystery illness in northwestern Congo has claimed the lives of 53 people, raising alarm among health officials and the World Health Organization (WHO). The disease outbreak, which began on January 21, has so far seen 419 recorded cases across affected regions.
Health officials are particularly concerned because the illness leads to death within 48 hours of symptom onset.
“The interval between the onset of symptoms and death has been 48 hours in most cases, and that’s what’s really worrying,” said Serge Ngalebato, medical director of Bikoro Hospital, a regional monitoring center.
Possible Animal-to-Human Transmission
The WHO’s Africa office reports that the first outbreak occurred in Boloko, where three children died after reportedly eating a bat and later exhibiting hemorrhagic fever symptoms. Concerns are growing about the risks associated with zoonotic diseases, especially in regions where wild animals are part of local diets.
The WHO has noted a 60% surge in such outbreaks across Africa over the last decade, highlighting the growing public health threat posed by diseases transmitted from animals to humans.
Testing and Investigation
A second outbreak began in Bomate on February 9, prompting the WHO to send 13 samples to the National Institute for Biomedical Research in Kinshasa for testing. So far, the results show:
- Negative tests for Ebola and Marburg viruses.
- Some positive tests for malaria.
This has led health officials to continue searching for the cause of the outbreak, though there is speculation that malaria may be playing a role.
Ongoing Public Health Concerns in Congo
Last year, Congo faced a similar mystery illness with flu-like symptoms that later turned out to be likely malaria. However, the rapid progression of symptoms in the current outbreak is causing heightened concern among medical experts.
Health authorities and the WHO are continuing surveillance, testing, and research to determine the cause of the outbreak and prevent further deaths.
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