A mysterious disease has caused the death of more than 50 people in northwestern Congo, with 419 cases reported since January 21, including 53 fatalities.

The outbreak is believed to have started in the town of Boulouko after three children consumed a bat, leading to their deaths within 48 hours of symptom onset.

While Ebola and other hemorrhagic fevers have been ruled out, some tests revealed malaria infections in certain cases.

Concerns have increased about the transmission of diseases from wildlife to humans in these areas, raising fears of further outbreaks.