Marburg virus is a close cousin of Ebola, causing similar symptoms and spreading in the same way. It can cause death in up to 88% of infected people. It's been found in Equatorial Guinea with suspected cases in neighbouring Cameroon.
The WHO has praised the"rapid and decisive action by the Equatorial Guinean authorities" in confirming the disease, meaning the emergency response could be mounted quickly.
The current outbreak has only just reached double digits, although the fact the two suspected cases in Cameroon have not travelled recently could be a concern if it signals there is undetected spread.There are no authorised vaccines or drugs to treat Marburg, but rehydration treatment to alleviate symptoms can improve the chances of survival.
The WHO is sending health emergency experts in epidemiology, case management, infection prevention, laboratory and risk communication.
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