Ghana: Two test positive for highly infectious Marburg virus

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The World Health Organization reported that two people in Ghana who died later tested positive for the Marburg virus, which produces a highly deadly disease comparable to Ebola.

The WHO stated in a statement on Thursday that tests in Ghana came back positive, but those results must be confirmed by a laboratory in Senegal for the cases to be considered confirmed.

According to the statement, the two patients in the southern Ashanti region both showed symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, nausea, and vomiting before dying in hospital.

If the cases are verified, it will be only the second Marburg outbreak in West Africa. The first incidence of the virus was discovered in Guinea last year, and no further cases have been reported.

“Preparations for a possible outbreak response are being set up swiftly as further investigations are underway,” the WHO said.

Ghana records suspected Marburg Virus Disease. In a press release from @_GHSofficial pic.twitter.com/xLiEidwygi

— Expressmed Healthcare (@ExpressmedH) July 8, 2022

Since 1967, there have been a dozen large Marburg outbreaks, most of which have occurred in southern and eastern Africa.

The Marburg virus is frequently connected with exposure to Rousettus bat colonies in caverns or mines. According to the WHO, once a human is infected, the virus spreads through contact with infected people's bodily fluids or contaminated surfaces and things.

The sickness manifests itself abruptly, with a high fever, severe headache, and discomfort.

According to the WHO, death rates in previous outbreaks ranged from 24% to 88%, depending on the virus type and case care. Although no licensed vaccines or antiviral treatments are available, oral or intravenous rehydration and treatment of specific symptoms boost survival rates, according to the study.

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