According to the WHO, Equatorial Guinea has verified its first-ever epidemic of Marburg disease, which is caused by the Ebola-like Marburg virus.
Here is what we know so far about the Marburg virus and the Equatorial Guinea epidemic, which has killed nine people:
In humans, the Marburg virus causes Marburg disease (MVD), which is generally fatal. It can be fatal in up to 88% of patients if not treated, although early treatment and careful patient care can reduce the fatality rate.
The virus was initially detected and reported in 1967, following outbreaks in the German cities of Marburg and Frankfurt, as well as the Yugoslav capital of Belgrade.
The Filoviridae family includes both the Marburg and Ebola viruses (filovirus). The two diseases are identical despite being caused by distinct viruses.
The Marburg virus, like Ebola, originates in bats
The Marburg virus, like Ebola, originates in bats. It is very contagious and spreads by close contact with infected people’s bodily fluids or surfaces, such as contaminated bed sheets or clothes. Close contact between healthcare professionals and patients has also been linked to infection.
Marburg virus: MVD symptoms
MVD symptoms include bleeding, fever, diarrhea, and vomiting. The illness starts with a high fever and severe headache, then progresses to diarrhea, stomach cramps, and vomiting. According to the WHO, many patients experience severe hemorrhagic symptoms between 5 and 7 days.
Nine people have died in Equatorial Guinea due to the Marburg outbreak, and 16 more are suspected of being infected. Advance teams have been deployed in the concerned districts to track down contacts, and isolate and treat persons who are displaying signs of the disease.
The Kie-Ntem province and the neighboring district of Mongomo have been placed under lockdown to prevent the spread of the disease, according to the country’s health minister.
There have been prior outbreaks and occasional cases in other countries of Africa, including Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Guinea, Kenya, South Africa, and Uganda. Last year, Ghana recorded two deaths connected to the Marburg virus.
There are no licensed vaccinations or antiviral treatments to treat the sickness at this time. Treatment of specific symptoms, such as dehydration, improves survival chances dramatically.