Marburg Virus Detected in Uganda Toddler

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Geneva: A 17-month-old toddler in western Uganda’s Kyegegwa District has tested positive for the deadly Marburg virus, the World Health Organization announced Thursday. The infection was unexpectedly uncovered during enhanced disease surveillance originally established to monitor an ongoing regional Ebola outbreak.

The patient was initially thought to have contracted Ebola. However, laboratory testing confirmed it as Marburg, a severe hemorrhagic fever that carries a devastating 50 percent average fatality rate.

WHO Chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus confirmed that health authorities are currently tracking all identified contacts of the infected toddler. Fortunately, none of the individuals under observation have exhibited symptoms.

There is no approved vaccine or specific antiviral treatment for Marburg, which originates in fruit bats. The WHO is supporting local investigations to locate the source of exposure and assess public health risks.