"Deadly Marburg Virus Spreads in Ethiopia"

Ethiopia Confirms Outbreak of Deadly Marburg Virus In a concerning development, Ethiopia has confirmed an outbreak of the Marburg virus in the south of the country, with at least nine cases detected, according to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC). The Marburg virus, a highly contagious and Ebola-like illness, has been confirmed by Ethiopia's National Reference Laboratory, prompting further investigations and laboratory analyses. The outbreak highlights the ongoing threat of hemorrhagic fevers in Africa, underscoring the need for swift and coordinated international responses to contain the spread of the virus. The Marburg virus is one of the deadliest known pathogens, with a fatality rate of up to 80% of those infected. This alarming statistic has sparked global health concerns, with experts warning of the potential for the virus to spread rapidly. According to the Africa CDC, the outbreak was confirmed after laboratory tests were conducted on samples collected from patients in southern Ethiopia. The agency has stated that it is working closely with the Ethiopian government to contain the outbreak and prevent further spread of the virus. "We are taking all necessary measures to prevent the spread of the virus and protect the public," said a spokesperson for the Africa CDC. The Marburg virus was first identified in 1967 in Marburg, Germany, where it was contracted by laboratory workers who were handling infected green monkeys. Since then, outbreaks have been reported in several countries, including Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Kenya. The virus is transmitted through contact with infected bodily fluids, such as blood and saliva, and can cause severe hemorrhaging, organ failure, and death. Health experts have expressed concern about the potential for the Marburg virus to spread rapidly, particularly in areas with poor healthcare infrastructure. "The Marburg virus is a highly contagious and deadly disease that requires prompt and effective response to contain its spread," said Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, the World Health Organization's (WHO) Regional Director for Africa. "We urge the Ethiopian government to take all necessary measures to prevent the spread of the virus and protect the public." The WHO has activated its emergency response protocol to support the Ethiopian government in containing the outbreak. The agency is working closely with the Africa CDC, the Ethiopian Ministry of Health, and other international partners to provide technical assistance, laboratory support, and emergency funding to combat the outbreak. As the situation continues to unfold, health officials are urging the public to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the virus. "We urge the public to report any suspected cases of Marburg virus to the authorities immediately," said a spokesperson for the Ethiopian Ministry of Health. "We will continue to work closely with international partners to contain the outbreak and prevent further spread of the virus." In the meantime, the international community is watching the situation closely, with many experts warning of the potential for the Marburg virus to spread beyond Ethiopia's borders. As the situation continues to evolve, one thing is clear: the need for swift and coordinated action to contain the outbreak and prevent further spread of the virus.