A mysterious disease has swept through the Basankusu territory in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, killing more than 50 people in recent weeks.
The outbreak has forced around 2,000 residents to flee from Bomate, a village located 25 kilometers (over 15 miles) from Basankusu, the reported epicenter of the deadly illness. Senator Jean-Paul Boketsu Bofili of Equateur province confirmed the alarming situation in a press statement cited by Radio Okapi on Wednesday.
The disease manifests through severe symptoms, including hemorrhagic fever, intense headaches, and persistent joint or lower back pain. Health authorities remain baffled as they struggle to identify the cause behind the sudden wave of fatalities.
“In just one week, from February 3 to 9, more than 36 people have died, bringing the total death toll to over 50 since the outbreak began,” Bofili stated. The senator warned that the crisis is overwhelming the region’s fragile healthcare system, leaving local officials unable to contain its rapid spread.
Calling for urgent intervention, Bofili described the situation as a “serious health and humanitarian tragedy” that surpasses the capacity of local authorities. He urged the public to adhere to health guidelines as experts race against time to uncover the origins of the mysterious disease.
With fear gripping the community and health workers stretched to their limits, the people of Equateur province now face an escalating crisis with no clear answers in sight.
