WHO Calls Emergency Meeting as Marburg Virus Spreads in Equatorial Guinea

February 14, 2023        Mary Scott        2509

WHO to Hold Emergency Meeting on Marburg Virus Outbreak in Equatorial Guinea

The World Health Organization (WHO) has announced an emergency meeting to address the Marburg virus outbreak in Equatorial Guinea. The meeting will discuss measures to contain the outbreak, which has already claimed several lives.

What is the Marburg Virus?

The Marburg virus is a highly infectious disease that causes hemorrhagic fever. The virus is similar to the Ebola virus and is transmitted through contact with bodily fluids, such as blood or saliva. The disease has a high mortality rate and can be particularly devastating in areas with poor health infrastructure.

The Outbreak in Equatorial Guinea

The Marburg virus outbreak in Equatorial Guinea is the first to be reported in West Africa. The disease was first identified in the country in mid-January and has since spread to several provinces. As of now, the outbreak has claimed at least six lives and infected dozens more.

WHO Response

The WHO has deployed a team of experts to Equatorial Guinea to assist with the response to the outbreak. The emergency meeting is expected to address the need for additional resources and coordination between national and international organizations.

Implications for the Region

The Marburg virus outbreak in Equatorial Guinea has raised concerns about the potential for the disease to spread to neighboring countries. The WHO and other organizations are working to prevent the disease from crossing borders and to provide assistance to countries that may be at risk.

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