A new deadly virus is emerging, causing panic worldwide after the devastating COVID-19 pandemic. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, more than 50 people have died within just 48 hours of infection. Doctors have not yet identified the virus, leading to widespread fear. The outbreak was first detected in Western Congo, where three children who consumed a bat became infected. The virus then spread rapidly, claiming more lives. Symptoms include fever, vomiting, and internal bleeding.

Bikoro Hospital Director Serge Ngalebato confirmed that patients showing these symptoms succumb within 48 hours. The illness exhibits signs of hemorrhagic fever, similar to Ebola, Dengue, Marburg, and Yellow Fever. However, laboratory tests on multiple samples have ruled out these known viruses. The outbreak began on January 21, with 419 cases reported so far and 53 deaths. Scientists are racing to identify the cause as the situation worsens.

The World Health Organization’s Africa office reported that the outbreak started in Boloko village, where three children who ate a bat died within 48 hours. The second wave of infections was detected on February 9 in Bomate village. Blood samples from 13 patients were sent to the National Institute for Biomedical Research in Kinshasa, with results confirming negative for common hemorrhagic fevers but some testing positive for malaria. With no official name for the virus yet, experts warn that failure to contain the outbreak could lead to more casualties.