Marburg Virus Outbreak is 100% Deadly

The World Health Organization (WHO today reported the cumulative number of Marburg virus disease (MVD) cases in Equatorial Guinea is nine, including one confirmed case, four probable cases, and four suspected cases.

All these viral hemorrhagic fever cases have died as of February 21, 2023.

MVD previously had a case-fatality ratio of up to 88%. 

These MVD cases occurred between early January and February 7, 2023, in two villages in the Nsock Nsomo, eastern province of Kie-Ntem, Río Muni Region. 

And the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare of Equatorial Guinea confirmed one fatality was in a health facility, and there are no cases among healthcare workers.

However, thirty-four close contacts are currently under follow-up as of February 25, 2023.

Additionally, other African countries are on alert for MVD cases.

WHO assesses the risk posed by the MVD outbreak as high at the national level, moderate at the regional level, and low at the global level.

To notify international travelers of their health risks, the U.S. CDC issued a Watch - Level 1, Practice Usual Precautions notice regarding Equatorial Guinea's MVD outbreak.

The CDC says Marburg virus disease symptoms include fever, chills, headache, muscle pain, rash, sore throat, diarrhea, vomiting, stomach pain, chest pain, and unexplained bleeding or bruising.

And there are no specific treatments or approved vaccines for MVD, says the WHO.

Recent news indicates Marburg vaccine candidates are accelerating their clinical research as of February 25, 2023.