According to the WHO, although Marburg and Ebola are caused by two different viruses, the two diseases are clinically similar. Both are rare and have the ability to cause outbreaks with a high mortality rate. Infection results from prolonged exposure to mines or caves with bat colonies. Transmission is person-to-person and results from direct contact with blood, secretions, organs or body fluids of infected individuals or with surfaces and materials (eg bedding or clothing) contaminated with these fluids.
Symptoms
The period between infection and the onset of symptoms ranges from 2 to 21 days. Symptoms include high fever, severe headache and fainting. Muscle aches are common. Abdominal cramps, nausea and vomiting may occur on the third day. Diarrhea can persist for a week. Between the fifth and seventh day, many patients may experience severe bleeding in vomit or stool, along with nosebleeds. The average mortality rate is about 50%, ranging from 24 to 88%. Currently, there is no approved treatment that can cure the virus. However, it is possible to improve patient survival through treatments such as oral or intravenous rehydration. Several treatments are currently under development.
Situation in Ghana
An outbreak of Marburg fever has been identified in Ghana, while West Africa has been free of cases except for one case in Guinea in 2021. Currently, 98 people are considered contacts and are in isolation. No cases of Marburg fever have yet been identified among these contact cases. So far two unrelated men have had Marburg fever. Presenting symptoms including diarrhoea, fever, nausea and vomiting, the two men, aged 26 and 51, both died.
WHO actions
WHO is working to prevent outbreaks of Marburg virus disease by monitoring the disease and helping countries at risk develop emergency plans. When an outbreak is detected, WHO acts by supporting surveillance, community mobilization, case management, laboratory testing, contact tracing, infection control, logistics and education, and helping to ensure safe burial. A team of WHO experts has been deployed to Ghana to support local health authorities. Experts coordinate and assess risks and preventive measures to be taken. WHO has also published a detailed guide to the prevention and control of Marburg virus disease. Relevant Articles:
