Three people have died from the Marburg virus in Ethiopia, the Ministry of Health said on Monday, less than a week after an outbreak was declared.The Marburg virus is one of the deadliest known pathogens. Like Ebola, it causes severe bleeding, fever, vomiting, and diarrhoea and has a 21-day incubation period.&nbsp;Also like Ebola, it is transmitted via contact with bodily fluids and has a fatality rate of between 25 and 80 percent.The outbreak -- the first ever recorded in Ethiopia -- was confirmed in the city of Jinka, about 430 kilometres (211 miles) southwest of capital Addis Ababa, and a few hundred kilometres from South Sudan and Kenya's borders.&nbsp;The ministry said on Facebook that "17 suspected cases have been tested, and 3 deaths have been confirmed as caused by the virus."Three other individuals who exhibited symptoms but whose cases were not laboratory confirmed also died, the ministry said.Health authorities in Africa's second most populous nation said "129 people who had contact with the patients are currently in self-isolation and under close monitoring."&nbsp;World Health Organization chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus confirmed on Friday that at least nine cases had been detected in southern Ethiopia, two days after the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) was alerted to a suspected haemorrhagic virus in the region.Africa CDC confirmed the outbreak on Saturday after laboratory tests returned positive for the deadly virus.&nbsp;An epidemic of Marburg virus killed 10 people in Tanzania in January before being contained in March. Rwanda said in December 2024 it had managed to stamp out its first known Marburg epidemic, which caused 15 deaths. There is no approved vaccines or antiviral treatments for Marburg, but oral or intravenous rehydration and treatment of specific symptoms increases patients' chances of survival. Last year, Rwanda trialled an experimental vaccine from the US-based Sabin Vaccine Institute.

Ethiopia has reported its first Marburg virus outbreak, with three confirmed deaths and several suspected cases in Jinka. Health officials are monitoring 129 contacts. The WHO and Africa CDC have confirmed the outbreak. The deadly virus, similar to Ebola, has no approved vaccine or treatment.

Three people have died from the Marburg virus in Ethiopia, the Ministry of Health said on Monday, less than a week after an outbreak was declared. The Marburg virus is one of the deadliest known pathogens. Like Ebola, it causes severe bleeding, fever, vomiting, and diarrhoea and has a 21-day incubation period. Also like Ebola, it is transmitted via contact with bodily fluids and has a fatality rate of between 25 and 80 percent. The outbreak -- the first ever recorded in Ethiopia -- was confirmed in the city of Jinka, about 430 kilometres (211 miles) southwest of capital Addis Ababa, and a few hundred kilometres from South Sudan and Kenya's borders. The ministry said on Facebook that "17 suspected cases have been tested, and 3 deaths have been confirmed as caused by the virus." Three other individuals who exhibited symptoms but whose cases were not laboratory confirmed also died, the ministry said. Health authorities in Africa's second most populous nation said "129 people who had contact with the patients are currently in self-isolation and under close monitoring." World Health Organization chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus confirmed on Friday that at least nine cases had been detected in southern Ethiopia, two days after the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) was alerted to a suspected haemorrhagic virus in the region. Africa CDC confirmed the outbreak on Saturday after laboratory tests returned positive for the deadly virus. An epidemic of Marburg virus killed 10 people in Tanzania in January before being contained in March. Rwanda said in December 2024 it had managed to stamp out its first known Marburg epidemic, which caused 15 deaths. There is no approved vaccines or antiviral treatments for Marburg, but oral or intravenous rehydration and treatment of specific symptoms increases patients' chances of survival. Last year, Rwanda trialled an experimental vaccine from the US-based Sabin Vaccine Institute.

Ethiopia has reported its first Marburg virus outbreak, with three confirmed deaths and several suspected cases in Jinka. Health officials are monitoring 129 contacts. The WHO and Africa CDC have confirmed the outbreak. The deadly virus, similar to Ebola, has no approved vaccine or treatment.

Marburg outbreak in Ethiopia, 3 dead: Here's what we know

Marburg Virus concerns people of Rwanda. Six people have died in Rwanda from an outbreak of a deadly virus called Marburg. Most of the victims were healthcare workers. Rwanda has stepped up efforts to contain Marburg as 20 cases reported. Watch to know more.

Rwanda Confirms First Marburg Outbreak, Claims Six Lives

Rwanda is battling the deadly Marburg virus, which has killed at least six people in its first-ever outbreak.

The country's health minister, Sabin Nsanzimana, said that most of those killed were healthcare workers in the intensive care unit of the hospital.

Since Friday (September 27), 26 cases of the Marburg virus have been confirmed in the country. To stop the virus from spreading, the government has implemented measures like contact tracing, quarantining affected individuals and launching public health awareness campaigns.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the Marburg virus?</h2>

The Marburg virus is a highly infectious virus and has a high fatality rate from 24 per cent to 88 per cent, as per the World Health Organisation.&nbsp;

In 1967, the virus was first identified and linked to African green monkeys imported from Uganda.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/virus-ev-d68-which-sometimes-paralyses-kids-is-spreading-across-us-reports-760115">Virus EV-D68, which sometimes paralyses kids, is spreading across US: Reports</a>

<h2>How does the virus spread among people?</h2>

Egyptian rousette fruit bat is the primary carrier of the Marburg virus, from which it is transmitted to humans. The virus is also carried by African green monkeys and pigs.

Among humans, the virus spreads through contact with contaminated bedding or surfaces, infected semen and bodily fluids (blood, saliva, vomit, etc.).

<h2>What are the symptoms of Marburg virus?</h2>

In the patients infected with the Marburg virus, symptoms like high fever, severe headaches, and muscle pains are seen in the initial days.

After three days, patients have reported suffering severe symptoms like watery diarrhoea, stomach pain, vomiting, and bleeding from various parts of the body.

"The appearance of patients at this phase has been described as showing 'ghost-like' drawn features, deep-set eyes, expressionless faces, and extreme lethargy," stated the WHO.

In some patients, a non-itchy rash has also been seen between two and seven days. Some people also develop severe haemorrhagic manifestations in a week.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Next Covid From China: Killer Virus Found in Chinese Fur Farms

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In fatal cases, there is bleeding from multiple areas like the nose, gums, eyes&nbsp;and vagina.

<h2>How can the&nbsp;disease be treated?</h2>

The doctors have been providing supportive care and administering oral or intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration. However, as per the WHO, there is no proven treatment for the&nbsp;Marburg virus.

To test the symptoms of Marburg virus infection, people are using diagnostic methods like antibody enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), antigen detection tests, serum neutralization tests, reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay, and virus isolation by cell culture.

<h2>What measures should be adopted to control spread of the virus?</h2>

According to the health authorities, to control the spread of the virus, control measures like no physical contact with those infected, avoiding eating bushmeat or coming in contact with pigs, washing hands regularly, and using sanitiser should be implemented.

(With inputs from agencies)

Rwanda is battling the deadly Marburg virus, which has killed at least six people in its first-ever outbreak. The country's health minister, Sabin Nsanzimana, said that most of those killed were healthcare workers in the intensive care unit of the hospital.

Rwanda is battling the deadly Marburg virus, which has killed at least six people in its first-ever outbreak. The country's health minister, Sabin Nsanzimana, said that most of those killed were healthcare workers in the intensive care unit of the hospital. Since Friday (September 27), 26 cases of the Marburg virus have been confirmed in the country. To stop the virus from spreading, the government has implemented measures like contact tracing, quarantining affected individuals and launching public health awareness campaigns. What is the Marburg virus? The Marburg virus is a highly infectious virus and has a high fatality rate from 24 per cent to 88 per cent, as per the World Health Organisation. In 1967, the virus was first identified and linked to African green monkeys imported from Uganda. Also Read: Virus EV-D68, which sometimes paralyses kids, is spreading across US: Reports How does the virus spread among people? Egyptian rousette fruit bat is the primary carrier of the Marburg virus, from which it is transmitted to humans. The virus is also carried by African green monkeys and pigs. Among humans, the virus spreads through contact with contaminated bedding or surfaces, infected semen and bodily fluids (blood, saliva, vomit, etc.). What are the symptoms of Marburg virus? In the patients infected with the Marburg virus, symptoms like high fever, severe headaches, and muscle pains are seen in the initial days. After three days, patients have reported suffering severe symptoms like watery diarrhoea, stomach pain, vomiting, and bleeding from various parts of the body. "The appearance of patients at this phase has been described as showing 'ghost-like' drawn features, deep-set eyes, expressionless faces, and extreme lethargy," stated the WHO. In some patients, a non-itchy rash has also been seen between two and seven days. Some people also develop severe haemorrhagic manifestations in a week. Watch: Next Covid From China: Killer Virus Found in Chinese Fur Farms In fatal cases, there is bleeding from multiple areas like the nose, gums, eyes and vagina. How can the disease be treated? The doctors have been providing supportive care and administering oral or intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration. However, as per the WHO, there is no proven treatment for the Marburg virus. To test the symptoms of Marburg virus infection, people are using diagnostic methods like antibody enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), antigen detection tests, serum neutralization tests, reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay, and virus isolation by cell culture. What measures should be adopted to control spread of the virus? According to the health authorities, to control the spread of the virus, control measures like no physical contact with those infected, avoiding eating bushmeat or coming in contact with pigs, washing hands regularly, and using sanitiser should be implemented. (With inputs from agencies)

Killer ‘eye-bleeding’ Marburg virus creates havoc in Rwanda. Here's what it is

The United Nation’s health agency, in a statement, on Thursday (June 8), declared an end to a nearly four-month epidemic of Marburg virus in the Central African nation of Equatorial Guinea, with 35 confirmed or suspected deaths due to the disease. This comes days after the World Health Organization (WHO) also declared the end of the Ebola-like virus&nbsp;in Tanzania.&nbsp;

<h2>What did WHO say about Equatorial Guinea?</h2>

In a statement, the WHO said, “The outbreak of Marburg virus disease in Equatorial Guinea ended today with no new cases reported over the past 42 days after the last patient was discharged from treatment.” The Central African nation first confirmed the outbreak on February 13 after the death of nine people in one province due to the disease.&nbsp;

According to data from WHO, a total of 17 laboratory-confirmed cases and 12 deaths were recorded due to the virus while all the 23 probable cases reported died. The statement added, “Four patients recovered from the virus and have been enrolled in a survivors programme to receive psychosocial and other post-recovery support.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/equatorial-guinea-confirms-marburg-virus-outbreak-suspected-cases-in-cameroon-heres-what-we-know-so-far-562101">Equatorial Guinea confirms Marburg virus outbreak, suspected cases in Cameroon: Here's what we know so far</a>

WHO’s Regional Director for Africa, Dr Matshidiso Moeti, said, “While outbreak-prone diseases continue to pose a major health threat in Africa, we can bank on the region’s growing expertise in health emergency response to act quickly and decisively to safeguard the health and avert widespread loss of life.”&nbsp;

She added, “The hard work by Equatorial Guinea’s health workers and support by partner organizations has been crucial in ending this outbreak. WHO continues to work with countries to improve measures to detect and respond effectively to disease outbreaks.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tanzania-declares-end-of-deadly-outbreak-of-marburg-virus-says-who-599633">Tanzania declares end of deadly Marburg virus outbreak, says WHO</a>

The UN health agency also said that the Marburg virus had affected some eight provinces in Equatorial Guinea with Bata district in Litoral province being the worst-hit in the country which reported some 11 laboratory-confirmed cases.&nbsp;

<h2>Tanzania declares end to deadly Marburg virus outbreak: WHO</h2>

On June 2, WHO also released a statement informing that Tanzania has declared an end to the deadly outbreak of the Marburg virus which reported a total of nine cases, out of which eight were confirmed and one was probable. Among the confirmed cases, three&nbsp;recovered, while the disease claimed the lives of six in the East African country.

<h2>What is Marburg disease?</h2>

According to the WHO, the Marburg virus disease (MVD) is a highly virulent disease which comes from the same family of viruses that causes Ebola. The rare virus was first identified in 1967 after it caused multiple and simultaneous outbreaks of disease in laboratories in the German cities of Marburg and Frankfurt, as well as the Serbian capital Belgrade.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/marburg-outbreak-ebola-like-infection-kills-many-in-tanzania-prompts-alert-in-kenya-574755">Marburg outbreak: Ebola-like infection kills many in Tanzania, prompts alert in Kenya</a>

At least seven people died after being exposed to the virus who were said to have been conducting research on monkeys. The disease was also later associated with the African green monkeys from Uganda, however, the natural carrier of the Marburg virus is the African fruit bat.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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The United Nation’s health agency, in a statement, on Thursday (June 8), declared an end to a nearly four-month epidemic of Marburg virus in the Central African nation of Equatorial Guinea, with 35 confirmed or suspected deaths due to the disease.

The United Nation’s health agency, in a statement, on Thursday (June 8), declared an end to a nearly four-month epidemic of Marburg virus in the Central African nation of Equatorial Guinea, with 35 confirmed or suspected deaths due to the disease. This comes days after the World Health Organization (WHO) also declared the end of the Ebola-like virus in Tanzania. What did WHO say about Equatorial Guinea? In a statement, the WHO said, “The outbreak of Marburg virus disease in Equatorial Guinea ended today with no new cases reported over the past 42 days after the last patient was discharged from treatment.” The Central African nation first confirmed the outbreak on February 13 after the death of nine people in one province due to the disease. According to data from WHO, a total of 17 laboratory-confirmed cases and 12 deaths were recorded due to the virus while all the 23 probable cases reported died. The statement added, “Four patients recovered from the virus and have been enrolled in a survivors programme to receive psychosocial and other post-recovery support.” ALSO READ | Equatorial Guinea confirms Marburg virus outbreak, suspected cases in Cameroon: Here's what we know so far WHO’s Regional Director for Africa, Dr Matshidiso Moeti, said, “While outbreak-prone diseases continue to pose a major health threat in Africa, we can bank on the region’s growing expertise in health emergency response to act quickly and decisively to safeguard the health and avert widespread loss of life.” She added, “The hard work by Equatorial Guinea’s health workers and support by partner organizations has been crucial in ending this outbreak. WHO continues to work with countries to improve measures to detect and respond effectively to disease outbreaks.” ALSO READ | Tanzania declares end of deadly Marburg virus outbreak, says WHO The UN health agency also said that the Marburg virus had affected some eight provinces in Equatorial Guinea with Bata district in Litoral province being the worst-hit in the country which reported some 11 laboratory-confirmed cases. Tanzania declares end to deadly Marburg virus outbreak: WHO On June 2, WHO also released a statement informing that Tanzania has declared an end to the deadly outbreak of the Marburg virus which reported a total of nine cases, out of which eight were confirmed and one was probable. Among the confirmed cases, three recovered, while the disease claimed the lives of six in the East African country. What is Marburg disease? According to the WHO, the Marburg virus disease (MVD) is a highly virulent disease which comes from the same family of viruses that causes Ebola. The rare virus was first identified in 1967 after it caused multiple and simultaneous outbreaks of disease in laboratories in the German cities of Marburg and Frankfurt, as well as the Serbian capital Belgrade. ALSO READ | Marburg outbreak: Ebola-like infection kills many in Tanzania, prompts alert in Kenya At least seven people died after being exposed to the virus who were said to have been conducting research on monkeys. The disease was also later associated with the African green monkeys from Uganda, however, the natural carrier of the Marburg virus is the African fruit bat. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WHO announces end of deadly Marburg virus outbreak in Equatorial Guinea

World Health Organization released a statement on Friday informing that Tanzania has declared an end of the deadly outbreak of the Marburg virus, the cases o which were first reported in the month of March this year.

A total of nine cases, out of which eight were confirmed and one was probable, were recorded in the outbreak of haemorrhagic fever between 16 March to 30 April 2023, as per WHO. Among the confirmed cases, three had recovered. The virus had claimed the lives of six in the East African country.

The cases were reported from the Bukoba district, Kagera region.&nbsp;

Tanzania declared the end of the deadly virus outbreak after the last confirmed case of Marburg in the country tested negative on April 19, setting off the mandatory 42-day countdown to make the announcement, said WHO. &nbsp;

This was the first such outbreak in the country with a population of almost 62 million.

The Marburg virus is an extremely dangerous microbe that causes severe fever, which is often accompanied by organ failure and bleeding. This microbe is a part of the filoviridae family which also includes Ebola.&nbsp;

<h2>Marburg virus origin and earlier outbreaks</h2>

The uncommon virus was first discovered in 1967 after it simultaneously caused disease outbreaks in laboratories in Marburg, Germany, and Belgrade, Serbia. Seven people had died while conducting research on monkeys. Previous Marburg virus outbreaks and isolated cases have been reported in different countries of Africa, including Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Guinea, Kenya, South Africa, and Uganda.

Two Marburg deaths were reported in Ghana in July 2022, along with the first cases in West Africa. In September, the outbreak was deemed to be over by the authorities. There have been past outbreaks and isolated cases in other countries of Africa as well, including Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Guinea, Kenya, South Africa, and Uganda.

<h2>Human-to-human transmission of the Marburg virus</h2>

Human-to-human transmission of the Marburg virus is possible through contact with blood or other bodily fluids. The contagion can spread in animals when they come in close proximity. The African fruit bat is considered the natural host of the Marburg virus disease, which carries it but doesn’t fall sick from it. The reason why the government of Equatorial Guinea has implemented lockdown and quarantine measures in the affected areas.

<h2>Treatment and cure of Ebola-like sickness</h2>

So far, no vaccines or anti-viral treatments have been approved to treat the Marburg virus infections. However, the World Health Organization says that rehydration with oral or intravenous fluids results in increased chances of survival of an infected individual.

(With inputs from agencies)

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World Health Organization released a statement on Friday informing that Tanzania has declared an end of the deadly outbreak of the Marburg virus, the cases o which were first reported in the month of March this year.

World Health Organization released a statement on Friday informing that Tanzania has declared an end of the deadly outbreak of the Marburg virus, the cases o which were first reported in the month of March this year. A total of nine cases, out of which eight were confirmed and one was probable, were recorded in the outbreak of haemorrhagic fever between 16 March to 30 April 2023, as per WHO. Among the confirmed cases, three had recovered. The virus had claimed the lives of six in the East African country. The cases were reported from the Bukoba district, Kagera region. Tanzania declared the end of the deadly virus outbreak after the last confirmed case of Marburg in the country tested negative on April 19, setting off the mandatory 42-day countdown to make the announcement, said WHO. This was the first such outbreak in the country with a population of almost 62 million. The Marburg virus is an extremely dangerous microbe that causes severe fever, which is often accompanied by organ failure and bleeding. This microbe is a part of the filoviridae family which also includes Ebola. Marburg virus origin and earlier outbreaks The uncommon virus was first discovered in 1967 after it simultaneously caused disease outbreaks in laboratories in Marburg, Germany, and Belgrade, Serbia. Seven people had died while conducting research on monkeys. Previous Marburg virus outbreaks and isolated cases have been reported in different countries of Africa, including Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Guinea, Kenya, South Africa, and Uganda. Two Marburg deaths were reported in Ghana in July 2022, along with the first cases in West Africa. In September, the outbreak was deemed to be over by the authorities. There have been past outbreaks and isolated cases in other countries of Africa as well, including Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Guinea, Kenya, South Africa, and Uganda. Human-to-human transmission of the Marburg virus Human-to-human transmission of the Marburg virus is possible through contact with blood or other bodily fluids. The contagion can spread in animals when they come in close proximity. The African fruit bat is considered the natural host of the Marburg virus disease, which carries it but doesn’t fall sick from it. The reason why the government of Equatorial Guinea has implemented lockdown and quarantine measures in the affected areas. Treatment and cure of Ebola-like sickness So far, no vaccines or anti-viral treatments have been approved to treat the Marburg virus infections. However, the World Health Organization says that rehydration with oral or intravenous fluids results in increased chances of survival of an infected individual. (With inputs from agencies)

Tanzania declares end of deadly Marburg virus outbreak, says WHO

A new lethal virus arrived at our doorstep even before Covid-19 was over. The WHO has declared the first-ever outbreak of Marburg disease in two African countries. In Equatorial Guinea, there have been at least nine laboratory-confirmed cases. Seven of the reported cases resulted in the death.

Marburg outbreak in Africa: All you need to know about this lethal virus

Marburg virus, which is similar as Ebola, has been spreading in parts of Africa. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has urged all travellers going to Guinea and Tanzania to take prevention to avoid catching the deadly virus.

Marburg virus: US health body warns travellers to observe symptoms for 21 days

The Marburg virus, one of the deadliest viruses in the world, has infiltrated Tanzania. The country has announced an outbreak of the virus. Other African countries are also facing the wrath of the Marburg virus. Can this be the beginning of a new pandemic? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Marburg virus causes 5 deaths in Tanzania

Marburg virus, an Ebola-like deadly virus, has killed five people in Tanzania's north-western Kagera region, prompting&nbsp;high-alert in neighbouring Kenya as well.&nbsp;The infection, which often entails bleeding and organ failure, had&nbsp;been previously reported in Equatorial Guinea,&nbsp; Uganda,&nbsp;Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya and South Africa. Tanzania's Marburg outbreak follows the one in Equatorial Guinea that killed nine people in the Central African country last month.&nbsp;

The deadliest Marburg outbreak was reported in 2005 in Angola where it killed 500 people. This time, however, Tanzania's health minister, Ummy Mwalimu, has said&nbsp;the disease has been contained and that she was confident that it would not spread further.

<h2>Marburg outbreak in Tanzania: How bad is it?</h2>

So far, three people are being treated in hospital and authorities are tracing 161 contacts, Tanzanian health minister&nbsp;Mwalimu added. The country's strategy to control the spread of Marburg have been acknowledged as "effective" by the World Health Organization (WHO).

WHO's regional director for Africa, Matshidiso Moeti, said: "The efforts by Tanzania's health authorities to establish the cause of the disease is a clear indication of the determination to effectively respond to the outbreak."

<h2>Marburg virus: How does it spread?</h2>

The Egyptian rousette fruit bat often harbours the virus. However, African green monkeys and pigs can also carry it. Among humans, it spreads through bodily fluids and contact with contaminated bedding.

<h2>Marburg virus: What makes it an Ebola-like deadly virus?</h2>

Biologically, the Marburg virus is part of the filovirus family, the same family of virus to which the Ebola virus belongs. According to World Health Organization, it kills about half of those infected.

<h2>Marburg virus infection: Symptoms of Ebola-like illness</h2>

The infection by Marburg virus results in fatal illness with symptoms including headache, fever, muscle pains, vomiting blood and bleeding.

<h2>Marburg virus: Treatment and cure of Ebola-like sickness</h2>

So far, no vaccines or anti-viral treatments have been approved to treat the Marburg virus infections. However, the World Health Organization says that rehydration with oral or intravenous fluids results in increased chances of survival of an infected individual.

On Tuesday, March 21, Tanzania declared a Marburg virus outbreak. 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
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Marburg virus, an Ebola-like deadly virus, has killed five people in Tanzania's north-western Kagera region, prompting high-alert in neighbouring Kenya as well. The infection, which often entails bleeding and organ failure, had been previously reported in Equatorial Guinea, Uganda, Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya and South Africa.

Marburg virus, an Ebola-like deadly virus, has killed five people in Tanzania's north-western Kagera region, prompting high-alert in neighbouring Kenya as well. The infection, which often entails bleeding and organ failure, had been previously reported in Equatorial Guinea, Uganda, Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya and South Africa. Tanzania's Marburg outbreak follows the one in Equatorial Guinea that killed nine people in the Central African country last month. The deadliest Marburg outbreak was reported in 2005 in Angola where it killed 500 people. This time, however, Tanzania's health minister, Ummy Mwalimu, has said the disease has been contained and that she was confident that it would not spread further. Marburg outbreak in Tanzania: How bad is it? So far, three people are being treated in hospital and authorities are tracing 161 contacts, Tanzanian health minister Mwalimu added. The country's strategy to control the spread of Marburg have been acknowledged as "effective" by the World Health Organization (WHO). WHO's regional director for Africa, Matshidiso Moeti, said: "The efforts by Tanzania's health authorities to establish the cause of the disease is a clear indication of the determination to effectively respond to the outbreak." Marburg virus: How does it spread? The Egyptian rousette fruit bat often harbours the virus. However, African green monkeys and pigs can also carry it. Among humans, it spreads through bodily fluids and contact with contaminated bedding. Marburg virus: What makes it an Ebola-like deadly virus? Biologically, the Marburg virus is part of the filovirus family, the same family of virus to which the Ebola virus belongs. According to World Health Organization, it kills about half of those infected. Marburg virus infection: Symptoms of Ebola-like illness The infection by Marburg virus results in fatal illness with symptoms including headache, fever, muscle pains, vomiting blood and bleeding. Marburg virus: Treatment and cure of Ebola-like sickness So far, no vaccines or anti-viral treatments have been approved to treat the Marburg virus infections. However, the World Health Organization says that rehydration with oral or intravenous fluids results in increased chances of survival of an infected individual. On Tuesday, March 21, Tanzania declared a Marburg virus outbreak. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Marburg outbreak: Ebola-like infection kills many in Tanzania, prompts alert in Kenya

A 34-year-old man has been isolated in Spain as health authorities suspect that he contracted Ebola-like Marburg virus during his stay in Equatorial Guinea, a small African nation. While tests are carried out in Madrid, the patient has been transferred from a private hospital to an isolation unit at the Hospital La Fe in the Valencia region of Spain, news agency Reuters reported. 
 
Equatorial Guinea has so far registered nine deaths and 16 suspected cases of the disease after an outbreak earlier this month forced isolation of 200 people.&nbsp; Two suspected cases were detected in Cameroon also. &nbsp;

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Marburg virus disease is "a highly virulent disease that causes hemorrhagic fever, with a fatality ratio of up to 88 per cent". There are no vaccines or approved antiviral treatments linked to the deadly virus yet.

Also watch |&nbsp; Gravitas: Equatorial Guinea reports 9 Marburg deaths. WHO calls for an emergency meeting

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<h2>Experts on Marburg virus</h2>

Marburg virus, the WHO has said, is in the same family of the virus that causes Ebola virus disease. The disease was initially detected in 1967 when two large outbreaks were reported simultaneously in Marburg and Frankfurt in Germany, and in Belgrade, Serbia. "The outbreak was associated with laboratory work using African green monkeys (Cercopithecus aethiops) imported from Uganda," the world health body underlined. Since then, infections have been reported from Angola, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, South Africa and Uganda.

Read | Explained: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-marburg-virus-outbreak-reaches-cameroon-know-about-symptoms-treatment-and-origin-562228">Marburg virus outbreak reaches Cameroon, know about symptoms, treatment and origin</a>

The reservoir host of Marburg virus is the African fruit bat, Rousettus aegyptiacus, as per the US drug regulator Centres for Disease Control and Prevention. The cave-dwelling bat is found widely across Africa. "Fruit bats infected with Marburg virus do not show obvious signs of illness. Primates&nbsp;(including people) can become infected with Marburg virus, and may develop serious disease with high mortality," the CDC has explained on its official website.

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A 34-year-old man has been isolated in Spain as health authorities suspect that he contracted Ebola-like Marburg virus during his stay in Equatorial Guinea, a small African nation.

A 34-year-old man has been isolated in Spain as health authorities suspect that he contracted Ebola-like Marburg virus during his stay in Equatorial Guinea, a small African nation. While tests are carried out in Madrid, the patient has been transferred from a private hospital to an isolation unit at the Hospital La Fe in the Valencia region of Spain, news agency Reuters reported. Equatorial Guinea has so far registered nine deaths and 16 suspected cases of the disease after an outbreak earlier this month forced isolation of 200 people. Two suspected cases were detected in Cameroon also. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Marburg virus disease is "a highly virulent disease that causes hemorrhagic fever, with a fatality ratio of up to 88 per cent". There are no vaccines or approved antiviral treatments linked to the deadly virus yet. Also watch | Gravitas: Equatorial Guinea reports 9 Marburg deaths. WHO calls for an emergency meeting × Experts on Marburg virus Marburg virus, the WHO has said, is in the same family of the virus that causes Ebola virus disease. The disease was initially detected in 1967 when two large outbreaks were reported simultaneously in Marburg and Frankfurt in Germany, and in Belgrade, Serbia. "The outbreak was associated with laboratory work using African green monkeys (Cercopithecus aethiops) imported from Uganda," the world health body underlined. Since then, infections have been reported from Angola, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, South Africa and Uganda. Read | Explained: Marburg virus outbreak reaches Cameroon, know about symptoms, treatment and origin The reservoir host of Marburg virus is the African fruit bat, Rousettus aegyptiacus, as per the US drug regulator Centres for Disease Control and Prevention. The cave-dwelling bat is found widely across Africa. "Fruit bats infected with Marburg virus do not show obvious signs of illness. Primates (including people) can become infected with Marburg virus, and may develop serious disease with high mortality," the CDC has explained on its official website. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Spain detects first suspected case of Ebola-like Marburg virus: Report

The deadly disease, caused by the Marburg virus outbreak, seems to have re-emerged in Africa as humanity is still reeling&nbsp;under the economic and health predicaments induced by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Marburg virus disease is being blamed for the death of nine people in the Central African country of Equatorial Guinea. The government has now declared a “health alert” in the country’s Kie-Ntem province, where 16 suspected cases have already been confirmed. The World Health Organization (WHO) is conducting an investigation into the Marburg virus outbreak and advance teams have already been deployed in the affected area. The government of Equatorial Guinea is also investigating the outbreak and revealed that only three people were showing light symptoms of the disease.

<h2>Health alert declared in affected areas of Equatorial Guinea</h2>

The authorities in Equatorial Guinea have declared a health alert in the Kie-Ntem province and the neighbouring district of Mongomo. As per the country’s health minister Mitoha Ondo’o Ayekaba, a lockdown plan has also been implemented after consultations with the WHO and UN. If the outbreak of the deadly Marburg virus is not checked, it could even spread to other parts of the continent as the affected areas are located close to the borders of Gabon and Cameroon. Cameroon has already detected two suspected cases of Marburg virus, including a 16-year-old boy and girl near the border with Equatorial Guinea. Quarantine measures have also been introduced in the affected areas, which have impacted 4,325 people in the country.

<h2>Marburg virus spreads to neighbouring Cameroon</h2>

Cameroon also reported two possible cases of the deadly Marburg virus infections. A 16-year-old boy and girl from Cameroon’s Olamze, located just two miles away from the border with Equatorial Guinea, are believed to have contracted the virus. They were showing symptoms like bleeding from the eyes and severe fever. Neither of the two infected teens travelled to Equatorial Guinea in the past few days.

<h2>What are the symptoms of the Marburg virus?</h2>

WHO has released a list of symptoms that a person can show after contracting the Marburg virus. According to the health body, Marburg virus symptoms may include fever, fatigue, as well as blood-stained vomit and diarrhoea. As per information available on the internet, the virus takes 2 to 21 days to incubate, leading to high fever, headache and muscular pain, accompanied by vomiting blood. The symptoms are similar to typhoid and malaria, so the Marburg virus disease is difficult to diagnose initially. The body's capacity to function on its own is decreased as a result of the virus' constant targeting of multiple organs.

<h2>How deadly is the Marburg virus disease?</h2>

Marburg virus is a lethal dangerous pathogen. It belongs to the so-called filovirus family which also includes the Ebola virus. The Ebola virus had wreaked havoc in Africa, claimed thousands of lives, and had a varied fatality rate ranging between 25% to 50%. The Marburg virus's fatality rates can range from 24% to 88% depending on the strain and hospital care. It must be noted that 90% of the 252 people who contracted the virus during an epidemic in Angola in 2004 ended up losing their lives. Two Marburg cases last year in Ghana also resulted in deaths.&nbsp;

<h2>Human-to-human transmission of the Marburg virus</h2>

Human-to-human transmission of the Marburg virus is possible through contact with blood or other bodily fluids. It can spread in animals when they come in close proximity. The African fruit bat is considered the natural host of the Marburg virus disease, which carries it but doesn’t fall sick from it. That’s the reason why the government of Equatorial Guinea has implemented lockdown and quarantine measures in the affected areas.

<h2>Is any vaccine available for the Marburg virus?</h2>

As of today, no vaccine or treatment is available for the Marburg virus disease. However, rehydration treatment is used to alleviate symptoms which can increase the chance of survival. The Marburg virus outbreak can now provide researchers with a chance to test their potential vaccines in the affected area. Make no mistake, a number of experimental vaccines and drugs have already been developed by scientists that have shown promising results in animals, but they have not been tested on humans yet.&nbsp;

Outbreaks like the one recorded in Equatorial Guinea are rare, so it could help the researchers further develop the experimental vaccines. A variety of prospective therapies for the Marburg virus are being assessed, including candidate vaccines with phase 1 evidence, immunological therapies, pharmacological therapies, and blood products.

<h2>Marburg virus origin and earlier outbreaks</h2>

The uncommon virus was first discovered in 1967 after it simultaneously caused disease outbreaks in laboratories in Marburg, Germany, and Belgrade, Serbia. Seven people had died then while conducting research on monkeys. Previous Marburg virus outbreaks and isolated cases have been reported in different countries of Africa, including Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Guinea, Kenya, South Africa, and Uganda.

Two Marburg deaths were reported in Ghana in July 2022, along with the first cases in West Africa. In September, the outbreak was deemed to be over by the authorities. There have been past outbreaks and isolated cases in other countries of Africa as well, including Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Guinea, Kenya, South Africa, and Uganda.

The deadly disease, caused by the Marburg virus outbreak, seems to have re-emerged in Africa as humanity is still reeling under the economic and health predicaments induced by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The deadly disease, caused by the Marburg virus outbreak, seems to have re-emerged in Africa as humanity is still reeling under the economic and health predicaments induced by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Marburg virus disease is being blamed for the death of nine people in the Central African country of Equatorial Guinea. The government has now declared a “health alert” in the country’s Kie-Ntem province, where 16 suspected cases have already been confirmed. The World Health Organization (WHO) is conducting an investigation into the Marburg virus outbreak and advance teams have already been deployed in the affected area. The government of Equatorial Guinea is also investigating the outbreak and revealed that only three people were showing light symptoms of the disease. Health alert declared in affected areas of Equatorial Guinea The authorities in Equatorial Guinea have declared a health alert in the Kie-Ntem province and the neighbouring district of Mongomo. As per the country’s health minister Mitoha Ondo’o Ayekaba, a lockdown plan has also been implemented after consultations with the WHO and UN. If the outbreak of the deadly Marburg virus is not checked, it could even spread to other parts of the continent as the affected areas are located close to the borders of Gabon and Cameroon. Cameroon has already detected two suspected cases of Marburg virus, including a 16-year-old boy and girl near the border with Equatorial Guinea. Quarantine measures have also been introduced in the affected areas, which have impacted 4,325 people in the country. Marburg virus spreads to neighbouring Cameroon Cameroon also reported two possible cases of the deadly Marburg virus infections. A 16-year-old boy and girl from Cameroon’s Olamze, located just two miles away from the border with Equatorial Guinea, are believed to have contracted the virus. They were showing symptoms like bleeding from the eyes and severe fever. Neither of the two infected teens travelled to Equatorial Guinea in the past few days. What are the symptoms of the Marburg virus? WHO has released a list of symptoms that a person can show after contracting the Marburg virus. According to the health body, Marburg virus symptoms may include fever, fatigue, as well as blood-stained vomit and diarrhoea. As per information available on the internet, the virus takes 2 to 21 days to incubate, leading to high fever, headache and muscular pain, accompanied by vomiting blood. The symptoms are similar to typhoid and malaria, so the Marburg virus disease is difficult to diagnose initially. The body's capacity to function on its own is decreased as a result of the virus' constant targeting of multiple organs. How deadly is the Marburg virus disease? Marburg virus is a lethal dangerous pathogen. It belongs to the so-called filovirus family which also includes the Ebola virus. The Ebola virus had wreaked havoc in Africa, claimed thousands of lives, and had a varied fatality rate ranging between 25% to 50%. The Marburg virus's fatality rates can range from 24% to 88% depending on the strain and hospital care. It must be noted that 90% of the 252 people who contracted the virus during an epidemic in Angola in 2004 ended up losing their lives. Two Marburg cases last year in Ghana also resulted in deaths. Human-to-human transmission of the Marburg virus Human-to-human transmission of the Marburg virus is possible through contact with blood or other bodily fluids. It can spread in animals when they come in close proximity. The African fruit bat is considered the natural host of the Marburg virus disease, which carries it but doesn’t fall sick from it. That’s the reason why the government of Equatorial Guinea has implemented lockdown and quarantine measures in the affected areas. Is any vaccine available for the Marburg virus? As of today, no vaccine or treatment is available for the Marburg virus disease. However, rehydration treatment is used to alleviate symptoms which can increase the chance of survival. The Marburg virus outbreak can now provide researchers with a chance to test their potential vaccines in the affected area. Make no mistake, a number of experimental vaccines and drugs have already been developed by scientists that have shown promising results in animals, but they have not been tested on humans yet. Outbreaks like the one recorded in Equatorial Guinea are rare, so it could help the researchers further develop the experimental vaccines. A variety of prospective therapies for the Marburg virus are being assessed, including candidate vaccines with phase 1 evidence, immunological therapies, pharmacological therapies, and blood products. Marburg virus origin and earlier outbreaks The uncommon virus was first discovered in 1967 after it simultaneously caused disease outbreaks in laboratories in Marburg, Germany, and Belgrade, Serbia. Seven people had died then while conducting research on monkeys. Previous Marburg virus outbreaks and isolated cases have been reported in different countries of Africa, including Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Guinea, Kenya, South Africa, and Uganda. Two Marburg deaths were reported in Ghana in July 2022, along with the first cases in West Africa. In September, the outbreak was deemed to be over by the authorities. There have been past outbreaks and isolated cases in other countries of Africa as well, including Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Guinea, Kenya, South Africa, and Uganda.

Explained: Marburg virus outbreak reaches Cameroon, know about symptoms, treatment and origin

The Central African nation Equatorial Guinea, on Monday (February 13) confirmed its first-ever outbreak of the Marburg virus disease after at least nine people died in the Kie-Ntem province, said the country’s health minister. Subsequently, the World Health Organization (WHO) confirming the outbreak said it would increase its epidemiological surveillance in the Central African nation which has also reported approximately 16 suspected cases.&nbsp;

What do we know about the “outbreak” so far?

More than 200 people have been placed under quarantine in Equatorial Guinea’s Kie-Ntem province due to the outbreak of the Marburg virus which according to the WHO is a highly infectious and deadly disease, similar to Ebola. According to reports, people in the Central African nation have reported symptoms including fever, fatigue, blood-stained vomit and diarrhoea.

In a statement, the health agency said, “Further investigations are ongoing. Advance teams have been deployed in the affected districts to trace contacts, isolate and provide medical care to people showing symptoms of the disease.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/equatorial-guinea-confirms-its-first-ever-ebola-like-virus-disease-marburg-after-9-dead-561678">Equatorial Guinea confirms its first-ever Ebola-related virus disease, Marburg, after 9 dead</a>

Last week, the Central African nation, said that an investigation into the suspected cases of hemorrhagic fever in the rural eastern region bordering Gabon and Cameroon was underway and only three people had shown some “light symptoms.” However, days later, the Health Minister of Equatorial Guinea, Mitoha Ondo’o Ayekaba, said that a “health alert” has been issued in Kie-Ntem province and the neighbouring Mongomo district.&nbsp;

Additionally, the health minister also said that the “lockdown plan implemented” was in consultation with the WHO and the United Nations. “Surveillance in the field has been intensified”, said the health agency’s representative in Equatorial Guinea, George Ameh. He added, “Contact tracing, as you know, is a cornerstone of the response. We have…redeployed the COVID-19 teams that were there for contact tracing and quickly retrofitted them to really help us out.”

As of now, they are working on a 30-day response plan where they will be able to quantify and gauge the exact measures and needs, said the WHO representative in Equatorial Guinea. According to the WHO, the local health authorities reported an unknown illness causing hemorrhagic fever cases and it was not until the samples were sent to Senegal that they were able to confirm at least one positive case of the Marburg virus disease in the country.&nbsp;

Suspected cases detected in Cameroon

The neighbouring Cameroon, which had previously restricted movement along its borders over concerns about the virus also reported two suspected cases of Marburg disease on Tuesday (February 15). The region where it was detected, Olamze, is said to be a commune on the border with Equatorial Guinea, said the local public health delegate Robert Mathurin Bidjang.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-equatorial-guinea-reports-9-marburg-deaths-who-calls-for-an-emergency-meeting-562071">Gravitas: Equatorial Guinea reports 9 Marburg deaths. WHO calls for an emergency meeting</a> 
 
In a meeting at the country’s capital Yaounde, Bidjang said that the two suspected cases of the Marburg disease detected on February 13 and the 16-year-old children, a boy and a girl, “have no previous travel history to the affected areas in Equatorial Guinea”. He added that some 42 people have come in contact with these children and have since been identified as they continue to contact trace, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

What is Marburg disease?

According to the WHO, the Marburg virus disease (MVD) is a highly virulent disease which comes from the same family of viruses that causes Ebola. The rare virus was first identified in 1967 after it caused multiple and simultaneous outbreaks of disease in laboratories in the German cities of Marburg and Frankfurt as well as the Serbian capital Belgrade. At least seven people died after being exposed to the virus who were said to have been conducting research on monkeys. The disease was also later associated with the African green monkeys from Uganda, however, the natural carrier of the Marburg virus is the African fruit bat.&nbsp;

How fatal is it?

The fatality ratio of the disease is up to 88 per cent, as per WHO. However, depending on the strain and the management of symptoms, the fatality rates for the virus can be lowered to at least 24 per cent. Furthermore, the Marburg virus is part of the so-called filovirus family which includes Ebola which has led to thousands of deaths in the African continent over the years. Previously, an outbreak of the Marburg virus took place in Angola and killed 90 per cent of the little over 250 people infected. The disease also led to two deaths in Ghana just last year.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/wion-insights/ghana-reports-2-deaths-from-marburg-which-has-fatality-rate-of-88-here-are-its-symptoms-treatment-more-498408">Ghana reports 2 deaths from Marburg, which has fatality rate of 88%. Here are its symptoms, treatment &amp; more</a> 
 
Is it transmissible?

Yes, like Ebola human-to-human transmission of this virus occurs through contact with the blood or bodily fluids of infected people, or surfaces.&nbsp;

What are the symptoms of Marburg disease?

According to the United States Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the illness is sudden and marked by fever, chills, headache, and muscle pain. Around the 5th day, the infected person can also experience nausea, vomiting, chest pain, sore throat, abdominal pain, and diarrhoea. Additionally, many patients develop severe haemorrhagic symptoms between 5 and 7 days, as per the WHO. The virus reportedly also targets several organs at the time, affecting the body’s ability to function and can also cause confusion in the infected person. &nbsp;

Is there any treatment or vaccine?

So far, there have been no authorised vaccines or drugs to treat Marburg disease. However, rehydration seems to have alleviated symptoms and can improve the chances of survival.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Central African nation Equatorial Guinea, on Monday (February 13) confirmed its first-ever outbreak of the Marburg virus disease after at least nine people died in the Kie-Ntem province, said the country’s health minister.

The Central African nation Equatorial Guinea, on Monday (February 13) confirmed its first-ever outbreak of the Marburg virus disease after at least nine people died in the Kie-Ntem province, said the country’s health minister. Subsequently, the World Health Organization (WHO) confirming the outbreak said it would increase its epidemiological surveillance in the Central African nation which has also reported approximately 16 suspected cases. What do we know about the “outbreak” so far? More than 200 people have been placed under quarantine in Equatorial Guinea’s Kie-Ntem province due to the outbreak of the Marburg virus which according to the WHO is a highly infectious and deadly disease, similar to Ebola. According to reports, people in the Central African nation have reported symptoms including fever, fatigue, blood-stained vomit and diarrhoea. In a statement, the health agency said, “Further investigations are ongoing. Advance teams have been deployed in the affected districts to trace contacts, isolate and provide medical care to people showing symptoms of the disease.” ALSO READ | Equatorial Guinea confirms its first-ever Ebola-related virus disease, Marburg, after 9 dead Last week, the Central African nation, said that an investigation into the suspected cases of hemorrhagic fever in the rural eastern region bordering Gabon and Cameroon was underway and only three people had shown some “light symptoms.” However, days later, the Health Minister of Equatorial Guinea, Mitoha Ondo’o Ayekaba, said that a “health alert” has been issued in Kie-Ntem province and the neighbouring Mongomo district. Additionally, the health minister also said that the “lockdown plan implemented” was in consultation with the WHO and the United Nations. “Surveillance in the field has been intensified”, said the health agency’s representative in Equatorial Guinea, George Ameh. He added, “Contact tracing, as you know, is a cornerstone of the response. We have…redeployed the COVID-19 teams that were there for contact tracing and quickly retrofitted them to really help us out.” As of now, they are working on a 30-day response plan where they will be able to quantify and gauge the exact measures and needs, said the WHO representative in Equatorial Guinea. According to the WHO, the local health authorities reported an unknown illness causing hemorrhagic fever cases and it was not until the samples were sent to Senegal that they were able to confirm at least one positive case of the Marburg virus disease in the country. Suspected cases detected in Cameroon The neighbouring Cameroon, which had previously restricted movement along its borders over concerns about the virus also reported two suspected cases of Marburg disease on Tuesday (February 15). The region where it was detected, Olamze, is said to be a commune on the border with Equatorial Guinea, said the local public health delegate Robert Mathurin Bidjang. ALSO WATCH | Gravitas: Equatorial Guinea reports 9 Marburg deaths. WHO calls for an emergency meeting In a meeting at the country’s capital Yaounde, Bidjang said that the two suspected cases of the Marburg disease detected on February 13 and the 16-year-old children, a boy and a girl, “have no previous travel history to the affected areas in Equatorial Guinea”. He added that some 42 people have come in contact with these children and have since been identified as they continue to contact trace, reported Reuters. What is Marburg disease? According to the WHO, the Marburg virus disease (MVD) is a highly virulent disease which comes from the same family of viruses that causes Ebola. The rare virus was first identified in 1967 after it caused multiple and simultaneous outbreaks of disease in laboratories in the German cities of Marburg and Frankfurt as well as the Serbian capital Belgrade. At least seven people died after being exposed to the virus who were said to have been conducting research on monkeys. The disease was also later associated with the African green monkeys from Uganda, however, the natural carrier of the Marburg virus is the African fruit bat. How fatal is it? The fatality ratio of the disease is up to 88 per cent, as per WHO. However, depending on the strain and the management of symptoms, the fatality rates for the virus can be lowered to at least 24 per cent. Furthermore, the Marburg virus is part of the so-called filovirus family which includes Ebola which has led to thousands of deaths in the African continent over the years. Previously, an outbreak of the Marburg virus took place in Angola and killed 90 per cent of the little over 250 people infected. The disease also led to two deaths in Ghana just last year. ALSO READ | Ghana reports 2 deaths from Marburg, which has fatality rate of 88%. Here are its symptoms, treatment & more Is it transmissible? Yes, like Ebola human-to-human transmission of this virus occurs through contact with the blood or bodily fluids of infected people, or surfaces. What are the symptoms of Marburg disease? According to the United States Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the illness is sudden and marked by fever, chills, headache, and muscle pain. Around the 5th day, the infected person can also experience nausea, vomiting, chest pain, sore throat, abdominal pain, and diarrhoea. Additionally, many patients develop severe haemorrhagic symptoms between 5 and 7 days, as per the WHO. The virus reportedly also targets several organs at the time, affecting the body’s ability to function and can also cause confusion in the infected person. Is there any treatment or vaccine? So far, there have been no authorised vaccines or drugs to treat Marburg disease. However, rehydration seems to have alleviated symptoms and can improve the chances of survival. (With inputs from agencies)

Equatorial Guinea confirms Marburg virus outbreak, suspected cases in Cameroon: Here's what we know so far

Equatorial Guinea has confirmed its first-ever outbreak of Marburg virus disease, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Monday. This comes&nbsp;after the deaths of at least nine people in Kie-Ntem province.&nbsp;After receiving a warning from a district health officer on February 7, health officials submitted samples to the Institut Pasteur reference laboratory in Senegal with assistance from the World Health Organization (WHO).

"So far nine deaths and 16 suspected cases with symptoms including fever, fatigue and blood-stained vomit and diarrhea have been reported," the WHO said in a statement.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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The government last week announced that it was investigating the cause of suspected cases of hemorrhagic fever in the rural eastern region near the borders of Gabon and Cameroon.&nbsp;

<img alt="WHO" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f9317443-7f6c-4df2-aad5-daef67e698c8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WHOO.png" />

"Further investigations are ongoing. Advance teams have been deployed in the affected districts to trace contacts, isolate and provide medical care to people showing symptoms of the disease," WHO added.&nbsp;

The global health body said that efforts are also underway to rapidly mount the emergency response, with WHO deploying health emergency experts in epidemiology, case management, infection prevention, laboratory and risk communication to support the national response efforts and secure community collaboration in the outbreak control.

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WHO is also facilitating the shipment of laboratory glove tents for sample testing as well as one viral haemorrhagic fever kit that includes personal protective equipment that can be used by 500 health workers.

Dr Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa said, “Marburg is highly infectious. Thanks to the rapid and decisive action by the Equatorial Guinean authorities in confirming the disease, emergency response can get to full steam quickly so that we save lives and halt the virus as soon as possible."&nbsp;

According to WHO, Marburg virus disease is a highly virulent disease that causes haemorrhagic fever, with a fatality ratio of up to 88%. "It is in the same family as the virus that causes Ebola virus disease. Illness caused by Marburg virus begins abruptly, with high fever, severe headache and severe malaise. Many patients develop severe haemorrhagic symptoms within seven days. The virus is transmitted to people from fruit bats and spreads among humans through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected people, surfaces and materials," the statement read.&nbsp;

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There are no vaccines or antiviral treatments approved to treat the virus, the WHO confirmed. However, it went on to say that "supportive care – rehydration with oral or intravenous fluids – and treatment of specific symptoms, improves survival."

"A range of potential treatments, including blood products, immune therapies and drug therapies, as well as candidate vaccines with phase 1 data are being evaluated," the statement added.&nbsp;

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Equatorial Guinea has confirmed its first-ever outbreak of Marburg virus disease, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Monday. This comes after the deaths of at least nine people in Kie-Ntem province.

Equatorial Guinea has confirmed its first-ever outbreak of Marburg virus disease, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Monday. This comes after the deaths of at least nine people in Kie-Ntem province. After receiving a warning from a district health officer on February 7, health officials submitted samples to the Institut Pasteur reference laboratory in Senegal with assistance from the World Health Organization (WHO). "So far nine deaths and 16 suspected cases with symptoms including fever, fatigue and blood-stained vomit and diarrhea have been reported," the WHO said in a statement. Also Read | Blinken, Wang Yi to meet face-to-face in Germany this week? The first after Chinese 'spy' balloon row The government last week announced that it was investigating the cause of suspected cases of hemorrhagic fever in the rural eastern region near the borders of Gabon and Cameroon. "Further investigations are ongoing. Advance teams have been deployed in the affected districts to trace contacts, isolate and provide medical care to people showing symptoms of the disease," WHO added. The global health body said that efforts are also underway to rapidly mount the emergency response, with WHO deploying health emergency experts in epidemiology, case management, infection prevention, laboratory and risk communication to support the national response efforts and secure community collaboration in the outbreak control. Also Read | White House says no 'alien' activity in unidentified downed objects over US WHO is also facilitating the shipment of laboratory glove tents for sample testing as well as one viral haemorrhagic fever kit that includes personal protective equipment that can be used by 500 health workers. Dr Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa said, “Marburg is highly infectious. Thanks to the rapid and decisive action by the Equatorial Guinean authorities in confirming the disease, emergency response can get to full steam quickly so that we save lives and halt the virus as soon as possible." According to WHO, Marburg virus disease is a highly virulent disease that causes haemorrhagic fever, with a fatality ratio of up to 88%. "It is in the same family as the virus that causes Ebola virus disease. Illness caused by Marburg virus begins abruptly, with high fever, severe headache and severe malaise. Many patients develop severe haemorrhagic symptoms within seven days. The virus is transmitted to people from fruit bats and spreads among humans through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected people, surfaces and materials," the statement read. Watch | This heart-shaped island is up for sale ahead of Valentine's Day There are no vaccines or antiviral treatments approved to treat the virus, the WHO confirmed. However, it went on to say that "supportive care – rehydration with oral or intravenous fluids – and treatment of specific symptoms, improves survival." "A range of potential treatments, including blood products, immune therapies and drug therapies, as well as candidate vaccines with phase 1 data are being evaluated," the statement added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Equatorial Guinea confirms its first-ever Ebola-related virus disease, Marburg, after 9 dead

Two cases of the deadly Marburg virus have been identified in Ghana. As per health authorities, this is the first time that this Ebola-like disease has been found in a West African nation. Blood tests collected from two victims in the southern Ashanti area earlier this month revealed the Marburg virus. As per an AFP report, the Ghana Health Service (GHS) reported that the samples were submitted to the Pasteur Institute in Senegal, which confirmed the diagnosis. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, South Africa, and Uganda have seen previous outbreaks and isolated cases of Marburg.

According to the GHS statement, 98 individuals who have been identified as contact cases are presently quarantined. It also stated that no more Marburg cases have been found in Ghana.

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Let's take a look at the disease, its symptoms and treatments for Marburg:

What is the Marburg virus?

As per&nbsp;WHO,&nbsp;the Marburg virus is similar&nbsp;to the Ebola virus and causes Marburg virus disease (MVD). The disease&nbsp;kills around one out of every two afflicted people.

Following studies on imported African green monkeys, the virus&nbsp;was first identified in 1967 in Germany and the former Yugoslavia.

What are its symptoms?

The time from infection to the start of symptoms, or incubation period for Marburg, ranges from 2 to 21 days.

As per WHO, the Marburg virus causes sudden onset illness characterised by a high temperature, excruciating headaches, and severe fatigue. Another typical symptom is aches and pains in the muscles. On the third day, severe watery diarrhoea, cramps and discomfort in the abdomen, nausea, and vomiting can be there.

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Many patients develop severe haemorrhagic symptoms between 5 and 7 days, and fatal cases typically have some sort of bleeding, often from numerous sites. Bleeding from the nose, gums, and vagina frequently accompanies fresh blood in vomit&nbsp;and faeces.

Is it fatal?

The disease has a case fatality ratio of up to 88 per cent that, with proper patient care, can be significantly lower.

Depending on the virus strain and case treatment, fatality rates in confirmed cases have ranged from 24 to 88 per cent in past outbreaks, according to the WHO.

Death in fatal instances often occurs 8 to 9 days after the beginning of symptoms and is typically preceded by significant blood loss and shock.

Transmission

Prolonged exposure to mines or caves where Rousettus bat colonies are present was earlier the primary cause of human MVD infection.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-people-queue-up-in-long-lines-for-monkeypox-vaccine-498366" hreflang="en">New York: People queue up in long lines for monkeypox vaccine</a>

It can also be transmitted from person to person through direct contact with the blood, secretions or other body fluids of infected persons, as well as with surfaces and things contaminated with these fluids.

Healthcare professionals caring for infected people are also at risk. Direct contact with an infected person's corpse during funeral rites has also been linked to the spread of Marburg.

As long as the virus is present in a person's blood, they are contagious.

Treatment

There are currently no authorized vaccinations or antiviral medications for MVD. However, supportive care, such as rehydration with oral or intravenous fluids, and treatment of symptoms, increase the chances of&nbsp;survival.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Two cases of the deadly Marburg virus have been identified in Ghana. As per health authorities, this is the first time that this Ebola-like disease has been found in a West African nation.

Two cases of the deadly Marburg virus have been identified in Ghana. As per health authorities, this is the first time that this Ebola-like disease has been found in a West African nation. Blood tests collected from two victims in the southern Ashanti area earlier this month revealed the Marburg virus. As per an AFP report, the Ghana Health Service (GHS) reported that the samples were submitted to the Pasteur Institute in Senegal, which confirmed the diagnosis. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, South Africa, and Uganda have seen previous outbreaks and isolated cases of Marburg. According to the GHS statement, 98 individuals who have been identified as contact cases are presently quarantined. It also stated that no more Marburg cases have been found in Ghana. Watch | More than 1.4 billion people at heightened risk of deadly disease: WHO report Let's take a look at the disease, its symptoms and treatments for Marburg: What is the Marburg virus? As per WHO, the Marburg virus is similar to the Ebola virus and causes Marburg virus disease (MVD). The disease kills around one out of every two afflicted people. Following studies on imported African green monkeys, the virus was first identified in 1967 in Germany and the former Yugoslavia. What are its symptoms? The time from infection to the start of symptoms, or incubation period for Marburg, ranges from 2 to 21 days. As per WHO, the Marburg virus causes sudden onset illness characterised by a high temperature, excruciating headaches, and severe fatigue. Another typical symptom is aches and pains in the muscles. On the third day, severe watery diarrhoea, cramps and discomfort in the abdomen, nausea, and vomiting can be there. Also read | Which are the deadliest viruses of 21st century? Many patients develop severe haemorrhagic symptoms between 5 and 7 days, and fatal cases typically have some sort of bleeding, often from numerous sites. Bleeding from the nose, gums, and vagina frequently accompanies fresh blood in vomit and faeces. Is it fatal? The disease has a case fatality ratio of up to 88 per cent that, with proper patient care, can be significantly lower. Depending on the virus strain and case treatment, fatality rates in confirmed cases have ranged from 24 to 88 per cent in past outbreaks, according to the WHO. Death in fatal instances often occurs 8 to 9 days after the beginning of symptoms and is typically preceded by significant blood loss and shock. Transmission Prolonged exposure to mines or caves where Rousettus bat colonies are present was earlier the primary cause of human MVD infection. Also read | New York: People queue up in long lines for monkeypox vaccine It can also be transmitted from person to person through direct contact with the blood, secretions or other body fluids of infected persons, as well as with surfaces and things contaminated with these fluids. Healthcare professionals caring for infected people are also at risk. Direct contact with an infected person's corpse during funeral rites has also been linked to the spread of Marburg. As long as the virus is present in a person's blood, they are contagious. Treatment There are currently no authorized vaccinations or antiviral medications for MVD. However, supportive care, such as rehydration with oral or intravenous fluids, and treatment of symptoms, increase the chances of survival. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION LIVE HERE: You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ghana reports 2 deaths from Marburg, which has fatality rate of 88%. Here are its symptoms, treatment & more

Health officials in Guinea are tense. Variants of the COVID virus are posing a significant threat. Now another virus called the Marburg virus has taken root in this country. WHO are closely watching the situation.

First Marburg virus case erupts in West Africa's Guinea

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