Congo on High Alert as Mystery Illness Claims Dozens of Lives

A mystery flu-like disease in Congo has killed 71 people, nearly half of whom were children, prompting the government to be on high alert. The disease, which presents symptoms such as fever, headache, cough, and anemia, has led to deaths primarily due to respiratory issues and lack of blood transfusions. Epidemiologists are investigating the outbreak in the southern Kwango province. This health crisis comes as Congo is already dealing with a significant mpox epidemic, with over 47,000 suspected cases and more than 1,000 deaths, leading to a vaccination campaign initiated in October.