Ebola-like Marburg virus with 88% mortality rate ‘could spread far and wide’

Ebola-like Marburg virus with 88% mortality rate ‘could spread far and wide’ after first case discovered in West Africa. Sadly, a case of the Ebola-like Marburg virus has been discovered in West Africa and experts have issued severe warnings.

According to experts the Marburg virus has a shocking 88 per cent fatality rate and they fear that it may “spread far and wide” if it is not contained quickly.

West Africa saw the Ebola virus spread between 2013 and 2016 and it is feared that this new virus could spread similarly and cause chaos too.

When Ebola hit West Africa it was the first time it had been seen there and Doctors struggled to treat the patients affected.

“The potential for the Marburg virus to spread far and wide means we need to stop it in its tracks,” said the WHO’s regional director for Africa, Dr Matshidiso Moeti.

“We are working with the health authorities to implement a swift response that builds on Guinea’s past experience and expertise in managing Ebola, which is transmitted in a similar way.”

According to reports from the WHO the first case was discovered in a man from Guinea. The man was from the Gueckedou province, and this is close to borders in Liberia and Sierra Leone. Experts are now worried that the virus could cross into other countries.

The patient headed to a small health clinic on August 1. He had initially developed symptoms on July 25 and sadly, he died the day after having sought out medical care. So far his close contacts have shown no symptoms but experts are worried.

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