Unknown Illness from Bat Consumption Claims 50 Lives in Northwestern Congo

KINSHASA, Congo (AP) — An unknown illness believed to have originated from three children who consumed a bat has resulted in the deaths of more than 50 people in northwestern Congo in just five weeks, health experts reported on Monday.

The outbreak, declared on January 21, has now resulted in 419 cases and 53 fatalities, with the symptoms, including fever, vomiting, and internal bleeding, leading to death within 48 hours in most incidents. Serge Ngalebato, the medical director of Bikoro Hospital, highlighted the rapid progression of the illness, stating, “That’s what’s really worrying.”

Health authorities are particularly alarmed by the outbreak’s swift mortality rate, which has led to fears reminiscent of previous outbreaks of hemorrhagic fevers. However, initial tests from numerous samples have excluded known viral infections such as Ebola, dengue, Marburg, and yellow fever.

The infection originated in the village of Boloko, where the three children died shortly after consuming the bat. This unsettling development has raised concerns regarding the consumption of wild animals in the region.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), incidents involving zoonotic diseases linked to wild animal consumption are on the rise, with cases in Africa increasing by over 60% in the past decade. This emphasizes the need for public health initiatives targeting wildlife consumption.

The situation escalated on February 9 when a second outbreak was detected in the village of Bomate, prompting health officials to send samples from 13 additional cases to the National Institute for Biomedical Research for testing in the capital, Kinshasa. All tests returned negative for the common hemorrhagic fever viruses; however, some samples were positive for malaria.

This outbreak is part of a broader narrative of health crises in the region, as previous incidents have shown fatal cases often misdiagnosed as malaria. Last year’s hemorrhagic disease outbreak, also in Congo, resulted in numerous deaths but was later attributed to a resurgence of malaria.

With the situation ongoing, health authorities are implementing measures to mitigate the spread of the unexplained illness and monitor its progression. The nature of the disease remains under investigation as scientists continue to probe its origins and potential transmission vectors. As research progresses, collaboration between local health officials and international health organizations like WHO will be crucial in managing containment efforts and providing necessary medical responses.

In light of these developments, public health messaging around the dangers of consuming wild animals is more critical than ever. Health officials urge communities to avoid contact with potentially infected animals and emphasize the importance of practicing safe food handling and preparation techniques. As the investigation continues, more information will be crucial to understanding the disease’s full impact and protecting public health in the area.