There were currently nine deaths and 16 suspected cases with symptoms including fever, fatigue, diarrhea, and vomiting.
The World Health Organization confirmed the first-ever outbreak of Marburg disease in Equatorial Guinea saying that the Ebola-related virus is responsible for at least nine deaths in the country. The health agency confirmed the epidemic after samples from Equatorial Guinea were sent to a lab in Senegal last week.
The agency also informed there were currently nine deaths and 16 suspected cases with symptoms including fever, fatigue, diarrhea and vomiting, saying that it was sending medical experts to help officials in Equatorial Guinea stem the outbreak.
All you need to know about the Marburg virus outbreak in Equatorial Guinea:
The rare virus was first identified in 1967.
Some patients experience vomiting, diarrhea and stomach pain for up to a week, WHO said, adding that severe cases are accompanied by bleeding within the first week. Some patients vomit blood or pass it in their stool while others may also bleed from their gums, nose, and genitalia, the WHO said.
Disclaimer: Except the headline and synopsis, this story has been taken from the HT News Service.