WHO warns Tanzania over deadly Marburg outbreak

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a warning to Tanzania following a deadly Marburg virus outbreak in the country. The outbreak, which has raised significant concern among health officials, has resulted in multiple fatalities and poses a serious public health threat.

Marburg, a rare but highly contagious virus, belongs to the same family as the Ebola virus and can cause severe hemorrhagic fever. The virus is transmitted to humans from fruit bats and spreads through direct contact with bodily fluids of infected individuals or contaminated surfaces. The symptoms of Marburg virus disease (MVD) include fever, vomiting, muscle pain, and bleeding, which can quickly lead to organ failure and death if not properly managed.

The WHO has expressed alarm over the outbreak, urging Tanzanian authorities to take swift action to contain the spread of the virus and prevent further infections. This includes strengthening surveillance, improving the identification and treatment of cases, and implementing strict quarantine measures for those who may have been exposed to the virus.

The Tanzanian government has already begun taking steps to control the outbreak, including isolating suspected cases, tracing contacts, and conducting public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the risks and symptoms of Marburg. Additionally, the WHO is providing technical support to the government in response to the outbreak.

The Marburg virus is particularly concerning due to its high mortality rate, with past outbreaks resulting in death rates of up to 90%. As of now, there are no specific vaccines or antiviral treatments available for Marburg virus disease, making early detection and supportive care critical in improving survival rates.

This outbreak in Tanzania follows similar incidents in other African countries, where Marburg has periodically surfaced. The WHO has emphasized the importance of international collaboration to address the outbreak and prevent its spread beyond Tanzania's borders.

The situation remains closely monitored as health authorities work to contain the virus and provide necessary care to affected individuals.

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