The Telegraph Experts warn that the outbreak’s proximity to borders with Kenya and South Sudan means that – if not contained – it could spread rapidly. The death toll in Ethiopia’s first outbreak of the deadly Marburg haemorrhagic fever has risen to five, with 10 cases confirmed.
Another three dead patients are also suspected to have died from the Ebola-like killer, but full lab tests have yet to confirm the cause.
Health experts have rushed to the outbreak site in southern Ethiopia since the first cases were confirmed earlier this month.
Scientists have warned that the outbreak’s proximity to borders with Kenya and South Sudan means that, if not contained, it could spread rapidly.
Marburg is caused by a filovirus carried by fruit bats and can jump to people exposed to the flying mammals in caves or mines.
Infection is then transmitted through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected patients.