Preliminary analysis of samples revealed two positive Marburg virus cases. The two patients from the southern Ashanti region - both deceased and unrelated - presented symptoms of diarrhea, fever, nausea and vomiting. Preparations for a possible outbreak response are being made rapidly as further investigations are in progress.

Marburg is transmitted to humans by bats (fruit bats) and spreads in humans through direct contact with bodily fluids of infected persons, surfaces, and materials. The disease begins abruptly with high fever, severe headache and discomfort. Many patients develop severe hemorrhagic symptoms within seven days. Mortality rates have varied from 24% to 88% in previous outbreaks, depending on the strain of virus and case management.