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Marburg virus disease (MVD) is a rare but deadly hemorrhagic fever that has affected various parts of Africa, including a recent outbreak in Rwanda, where 26 cases and 6 deaths have been reported.
The disease, caused by the Marburg virus, is highly infectious and can lead to severe health complications, including multi-organ failure. Here are the top 10 things you need to know about the virus:
1. Origin and Transmission
Marburg virus is primarily transmitted to humans from fruit bats, particularly the Egyptian rousette bat (Rousettus aegyptiacus). Human-to-human transmission occurs through direct contact with infected body fluids, such as blood, saliva, urine, feces, and vomit. It can also spread through contaminated surfaces and medical equipment. Healthcare workers treating infected individuals are especially at risk.
2. Incubation and Transmission Period
The incubation period for Marburg virus ranges from 2 to 9 days. Importantly, transmission does not occur during this period. The virus becomes contagious only once symptoms appear, typically through close contact with infected body fluids like blood or vomit.
3. Symptoms Progress in Two Phases
The disease usually develops in two phases. Initially, symptoms include fever, headache, muscle pain, and sore throat. After a brief period of improvement, more severe symptoms such as abdominal pain, vomiting, and bleeding occur. In advanced cases, multi-organ dysfunction and massive hemorrhaging are common.
4. High Case-Fatality Rate
Marburg virus has a high case-fatality rate, ranging from 23% to as high as 90%, depending on the outbreak and the level of medical intervention. The most fatal outbreak occurred in Angola in 2005, with a 90% fatality rate.
5. Recent Outbreaks in Africa and Rwanda
In recent years, Marburg outbreaks have been recorded in several African countries. In 2023, Equatorial Guinea had 16 confirmed cases with 12 deaths, and Tanzania experienced 8 cases with 5 deaths. Rwanda is currently dealing with 26 cases and 6 deaths, raising concerns about the potential for further spread.
6. No Specific Treatment Available
There is currently no specific treatment or licensed vaccine for Marburg virus disease. Supportive care, including rehydration and treatment of symptoms, can improve survival rates. Experimental treatments, including antiviral drugs and immunotherapy, are under development.
7. Preventive Measures
Preventive strategies include avoiding contact with fruit bats and non-human primates, especially in areas where outbreaks have occurred. Healthcare workers treating Marburg patients must use protective gear such as gloves, masks, and goggles to reduce the risk of transmission. Additionally, sexual precautions should be taken as the virus can persist in semen for weeks after recovery.
8. Diagnosis and Monitoring
Diagnosing Marburg virus can be challenging due to its similarity to diseases like malaria, typhoid, and yellow fever. Diagnosis is confirmed through specialized blood tests. Anyone returning from regions with Marburg outbreaks should monitor their health for 21 days and seek medical care immediately if symptoms appear.
9. Global Spread and Concerns
Although Marburg virus is mainly found in Africa, cases have been recorded outside the continent. In 2008, a traveler from Uganda to the U.S. developed Marburg symptoms but did not spread the disease. This demonstrates the potential for international transmission, especially through travelers.
10. Long-Term Effects for Survivors
Survivors of Marburg virus disease often suffer from long-term health issues, including fatigue, memory problems, skin peeling, and hair loss. The virus can remain in semen for several weeks after recovery, posing a prolonged transmission risk.
Sources:
1. World Health Organization (WHO) – Marburg Virus Disease Fact Sheet
2. Cleveland Clinic – Overview of Marburg Virus Disease
3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Marburg Hemorrhagic Fever Information
4. Public Health Updates –Recent Outbreaks of Marburg Virus Disease in Africa
5. European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) – Marburg Virus Disease Overview
