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Marburg virus identified

    NAIROBI
    The World Health Organisation on Friday confirmed that the epidemic of haemorrhagic fever in northeastern DRC is not due to the Ebola virus, but could be caused by the related Marburg virus. One of five samples analysed in South Africa tested positive for Marburg virus, the other four were negative. Revised figures from the WHO say there are an estimated 76 cases of haemorrhagic fever in the Watsa area, with 52 deaths, and investigations will be initiated to establish whether the Marburg virus is responsible. More medical experts were expected in the area within the next few days, WHO said. It pointed out that the virus was transmitted to humans following contact with infected animals and animal tissues, and from person-to-person contact via infected patients and body fluids.

    This article was produced by IRIN News while it was part of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. Please send queries on copyright or liability to the UN. For more information: https://shop.un.org/rights-permissions

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