World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on Friday (November 14) praised the swift action of the Ethiopian Ministry of Health and related agencies. In a social media post, he said the authorities’ swift action demonstrated their strong commitment to containing the outbreak. The WHO said Ethiopia had launched an investigation after receiving reports of a suspected viral hemorrhagic fever.

Marburg virus is a member of the same family as Ebola and is considered more serious. The US CDC has classified it as a rare but deadly hemorrhagic fever. Originating from fruit bats in Egypt, the virus can be spread through bodily fluids or contaminated objects.

Common symptoms include fever, rash and bleeding. According to the CDC, there is no specific treatment or vaccine for Marburg; patients are treated with supportive care—rest and hydration.

The outbreak in Ethiopia's Omo region has raised concerns, as the area is close to the border with South Sudan. Africa CDC chief Jean Kassaya said South Sudan's weak health system could increase the risk in border areas.

WHO chief Tedros said the agency was helping Ethiopia control the outbreak, treat patients and prevent cross-border spread. Ethiopia's health ministry said the infected were being isolated and treated and contact tracing was underway. The public was urged not to panic and to follow health guidelines.

Preovious Post

Awami League Lacks Power to Disrupt Elections, Says Press Secretary

Next Post

International Conference on the End of Prophethood begins at Suhrawardy Park