WHO Probes Congo Illness Amid Zoonotic Surge

An unknown illness has caused the deaths of over 50 people in northwestern Congo since the outbreak began on January 21, 2025, with victims typically succumbing within 48 hours of symptom onset. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports 419 cases, with the disease manifesting as fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and hemorrhagic symptoms. The initial outbreak occurred in Boloko, where three children died after consuming a bat, and a subsequent outbreak was reported in Bomate. Samples were sent for testing in Kinshasa, with results negative for Ebola and Marburg but some positive for malaria. WHO emphasizes the need for further investigation to determine the pathogen, underscoring concerns about zoonotic diseases in regions where wildlife consumption is common. The situation highlights the broader challenge of disease transmission from animals to humans, exacerbated by increased travel and environmental factors.