Marburg Virus Disease

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). 
  • Rousettus aegyptiacus, a fruit bat of the Pteropodidae family, is considered the natural host of Marburg virus. 

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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:  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