The outbreak of Marburg virus (similar to Ebola virus) in northern Angola has left many clients travelling to Angola wondering how safe it is to travel to a country that has news of a disease outbreak.

As of 6 April there have been 175 reported cases with 150 deaths, most occurring in the northern province of Angola. 2 Deaths have been reported in Luanda and the concern is that the disease may spread. Transmission of the virus occurs via bodily fluids such as saliva, droplets from coughing or sneezing and it can survive on surfaces such as tables and door handles.

People most at risk are those that live with or care for ill people.

The source of the virus is as yet unidentified.

When one views this information from the perspective of a typical business traveller who usually stays in hotels and only has very limited contact with residents of Angola, the risk is likely to be extremely low of contracting Marburg virus.

In order to be fully informed and well prepared I think it is vital to contact an up-to-date travel clinic such as MTI before any proposed trip.