The Marburg outbreak in Equatorial Guinea is a concern — and a likelihood for progress

  • Home
  • Health and Fitness
  • The Marburg outbreak in Equatorial Guinea is a concern — and a likelihood for progress

The Marburg virus is a rare, but potentially serious virus that is of great concern in Equatorial Guinea. The virus can be spread through contact with infected animals and the bodily fluids of an infected person. It is an extremely rare, but life-threatening illness with no known cure.

This past year, the first confirmed outbreak of Marburg virus in Equatorial Guinea was reported. It is believed that the virus was contracted through contact with infected animals such as bats. This outbreak has been met with much concern by citizens, public health officials and the world’s medical community due to the potential impact it could have on the health of the population in Equatorial Guinea and beyond.

The primary focus now is on containing the spread of Marburg virus in Equatorial Guinea. This is being done through critical measures such as prompt medical examination and quarantine of those in contact with confirmed cases. In addition, effective communication and developing an immediate public health response are vital for the containment of the virus.

The Marburg outbreak in Equatorial Guinea is a concerning event; however, it can also lead to much progress. By bringing this rare virus to the public eye and creating a focus on rapid public health response and effective communication, a country like Equatorial Guinea can see the benefits for its people’s health and well-being.

At the same time, the focus on public health has the potential to inspire neighbouring countries to think broadly about how to respond to serious and rare public health events. The Marburg outbreak in Equatorial Guinea is an opportunity to establish a network of public health experts to coordinate an effective response, while at the same time strengthening healthcare systems.

The Marburg outbreak in Equatorial Guinea is of great concern; however, it can also serve as an opportunity to make progress in public health. If proper measures are taken to contain it, then the outbreak can serve as an example to greater the safety of those in the region and provide an opportunity to advance public health. [ad_1]

Bats congregate in the Bat Cave in Queen Elizabeth National Park on August 24, 2018. Scientists placed GPS devices on some of the bats to determine flight patterns and how they transmit Marburg virus to humans. Approximately 50,000 bats dwell in the cave.

Marburg virus is tough to detect early on–and goes on to eliminate about 50 % its victims. Scientists hope to operate quickly all through this outbreak to make development on emerging vaccines and treatments.

(Picture credit history: Bonnie Jo Mount/The Washington Publish by using Getty Illustrations or photos)



[ad_2]

Resource connection