Marburg Virus Disease Latest News
Recently, the World Health Organization (WHO) said that Ethiopia has reported its first-ever outbreak of Marburg virus disease.
About Marburg Virus Disease
- It is a severe and often fatal hemorrhagic fever caused by the Marburg virus.
- History and Origin: It was first identified in 1967 in the German city of Marburg.
- Cause: Marburg virus (MARV) and Ravn virus (RAVV) of the species Orthomarburgvirus marburgense are the causative agents of Marburg virus disease (MVD).Â
- Rousettus aegyptiacus, a fruit bat of the Pteropodidae family, is considered the natural host of Marburg virus.Â
Transmission of Marburg Virus Disease
- It initially transmitted from fruit bats (Rousettus aegyptiacus) to humans.
- It spread to other humans through direct contact with bodily fluids of infected individuals or contaminated surfaces.
- Geographical spread: Most outbreaks have occurred in sub-Saharan Africa, including countries like Tanzania, Uganda, Angola, Ghana, Kenya, and Zimbabwe.
Symptoms of Marburg Virus Disease
- Early signs: High fever, severe headache, and malaise.
- Advanced stage:Â It includes severe bleeding, liver failure, multi-organ dysfunction, shock, and death within 8-9 days of symptom onset.
- Treatment: No specific treatment exists. Supportive care includes rehydration, electrolyte replacement, and symptom management, improving survival chances.
Source: DD News
Virus Disease FAQs
Q1: What is the primary mode of transmission of Marburg Virus Disease?
Ans: Direct contact with infected bodily fluids
Q2: What is a virus?
Ans: A small infectious agent that replicates inside host cells.
