The World Health Organization (WHO) has intensified its investigation into a mysterious illness that has reportedly caused over 60 deaths in northern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) within the past five weeks, CBS News reports.
The illness, which has been spreading in Equateur province, remains unidentified, prompting increased disease surveillance and testing efforts.
According to WHO, the most recent cluster of cases was recorded in the Basankusu health zone, where 141 additional people fell ill last week, though no deaths were reported. This follows previous outbreaks in the same zone, where 158 cases and 58 deaths were recorded in February. In January, the Bolamba health zone reported 12 cases, including eight fatalities.
The illness first gained attention after several children in the region reportedly became sick and died within 48 hours of consuming a bat. Their symptoms resembled those of hemorrhagic fevers such as Ebola or Marburg. However, laboratory tests conducted on early samples ruled out these viruses. Half of the samples tested positive for malaria, but WHO officials are continuing to analyze additional factors, including the potential presence of meningitis or environmental contaminants in food and water.
By February 19, health officials had identified 943 suspected cases, including 52 deaths. The investigation is being conducted by a national response team from Congo’s Ministry of Health, WHO epidemiologists, and a regional health team deployed to the affected areas. They have been collecting blood and urine samples, as well as oral and nasal swabs, to determine the illness’s origin and transmission patterns.
Efforts to diagnose and contain the disease have been complicated by the region’s remote location, limited healthcare infrastructure, and poor transportation and communication networks. The spread of the illness has raised concerns among health officials, particularly as the country’s eastern regions continue to face instability due to ongoing conflict.
Health experts warn that new and emerging diseases in Congo highlight the need for strengthened global disease surveillance and preparedness. Sarah Olsen, director of Health Research at the Wildlife Conservation Society, emphasized the urgency of international cooperation, stating:
“These illnesses know no boundaries. Now is the time to increase funding and vigilance before one of these illnesses ends up in a major city center and begins a new pandemic.”
