Kuru Disease

Kuru Disease is a rare and fatal neurodegenerative disorder caused by misfolded proteins called prions. It primarily affected the Fore people of Papua New Guinea, who practiced ritualistic cannibalism, consuming the brain tissue of deceased individuals. Symptoms include tremors, loss of coordination, and changes in behavior, progressing to severe neurological decline. Kuru is part of a group of diseases known as transmissible spongiform encephalopathies, which also includes mad cow disease. Efforts to halt its spread involved ending cannibalistic practices, leading to a decline in cases. Today, Kuru serves as a critical example of how prions can affect the brain.