WHO declares Marburg virus disease an epidemic in Equatorial Guinea: Everything you need to know about it 

Marburg virus disease: The World Health Organization on Monday, said the Ebola-related virus is to blame for at least nine fatalities in Equatorial Guinea and has caused the first-ever outbreak of Marburg disease there. After samples from Equatorial Guinea were delivered to a lab in Senegal last week, the health department verified the epidemic.

While nine people have lost their lives, at least 16 people are suspected to have the disease with symptoms such as fever, fatigue, diarrhea and vomiting. Medical expert to help officials in Equatorial Guinea are being sent, WHO said. 

What is Marburg virus disease?

The Marburg virus, like Ebola, is born in bats and spreads through close contact with infected people's bodily fluids or surfaces, such as contaminated bed sheets.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, Marburg virus disease is caused by Marburg virus, a hemorrhagic fever that can affect the body's organs and cause bleeding.

It was initially recorded in 1967 in Belgrade, Yugoslavia, and a German town called Marburg (now Serbia). Both cities experienced outbreaks at the same time. It originated from monkeys that were brought into Marburg from Uganda for scientific research.

Symptoms of Marburg virus disease

The World Health Organization states that the illness has an incubation period of two to three weeks and that symptoms start suddenly with a severe fever and headache.

According to the WHO, some patients have vomiting, diarrhoea, and stomach pain for up to a week. Severe instances also include bleeding within the first week, the organisation added. According to the WHO, some individuals may bleed from their gums, nose, and genitalia in addition to vomiting blood or passing it in their faeces.

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