Fears on the rise in Ethiopia as mystery illness strikes many dead

Health authorities in Ethiopia are battling to stem the spread of a mystery illness which has persisted in the past few years and has killed hundreds in the eastern Somali region of the country.

Reports say more than 2,000 people had died from the mystery illness and an unknown number of others have become very sick over the deadly sickness which is striking mainly nomadic communities who roam the Ogaden Basin.

According to Juweria Ali, a human rights researcher who has spent months investigating the issue, the symptoms of the illness are horrific and include nosebleeds, eyes turning green or yellow, really high fever, fainting and ultimately death.

READ ALSO: CORONAVIRUS: Iran reports 133 new deaths as S’Africa joins Kenya in banning foreign visitors

She added that the illness could be related to the activities of those hoping to exploit what are believed to be vast reserves of oil and gas – although scientific studies would be needed to prove this.

“Locals describe seeing white powder spilled in their neighbourhoods by companies operating. When it rains, these toxins then flow into the river, which people drink – so it’s a vicious cycle,” Juweria said.

Join the conversation

Opinions

Support Ripples Nigeria, hold up solutions journalism

Balanced, fearless journalism driven by data comes at huge financial costs.

As a media platform, we hold leadership accountable and will not trade the right to press freedom and free speech for a piece of cake.

If you like what we do, and are ready to uphold solutions journalism, kindly donate to the Ripples Nigeria cause.

Your support would help to ensure that citizens and institutions continue to have free access to credible and reliable information for societal development.

Donate Now