Marburg virus is a rare but severe virus that can cause serious illness and even death. It is a member of the family Filoviridae, which also includes the Ebola virus. The virus was first identified in 1967 during outbreaks that occurred in Marburg and Frankfurt, Germany, and Belgrade, Serbia (then Yugoslavia).
The symptoms of Marburg virus are similar to those of Ebola virus and can include fever, headache, muscle aches, and weakness. In addition, patients may experience vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, and chest pain. Some patients may also develop a rash, red eyes, and bleeding from the gums, nose, and other parts of the body.
Marburg virus is transmitted through direct contact with the blood, body fluids, or tissues of infected animals or people. Fruit bats, which are common in Africa, are believed to be the natural hosts of the virus. Human-to-human transmission can occur through close contact with an infected person's blood, body fluids, or tissues, especially during caregiving, burial or other funeral practices.
There is no specific treatment or vaccine for Marburg virus, so prevention is crucial. To prevent the spread of the virus, people should avoid contact with infected animals or people, wear personal protective equipment such as gloves and masks, and follow proper hygiene practices, such as washing hands regularly. Early detection and isolation of suspected cases, safe and dignified burials are other important measures.
Marburg virus outbreaks have occurred mainly in Africa, particularly in Uganda, Kenya, Angola, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The most recent outbreak occurred in 2022, in Guinea, and was associated with a cluster of cases linked to the funeral of a traditional healer.
Marburg virus is a rare but serious disease that can cause severe illness and death. The virus is transmitted through direct contact with infected animals or people, and there is no specific treatment or vaccine for the disease. Prevention measures, including avoiding contact with infected animals or people and practicing proper hygiene, are crucial to preventing the spread of the virus.