A new, unidentified illness spreading in northwestern Democratic Republic of Congo has led to 419 reported cases and 53 deaths since January 21. Symptoms produce rapid deterioration, with most fatalities occurring within 48 hours. The World Health Organization traced the outbreak's origins to children consuming a bat carcass. This illness poses a severe public health threat with a 12.3% fatality rate and is distinct from known hemorrhagic fevers like Ebola. Additionally, DRC faces ongoing challenges from Mpox and prior respiratory infection outbreaks, raising concerns about accurate case reporting amid political instability.
The outbreak poses a 'significant public health threat' with a fatality rate of 12.3%, raising concerns about its origins and potential spread.
Since January 21, there have been 419 cases and 53 deaths linked to the unidentified illness, most occurring within 48 hours of symptom onset.
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