Marburg

What is Marburg Virus Disease?

Marburg virus disease (MVD) is a rare but severe hemorrhagic fever which affects humans. MVD is a genetically unique zoonotic (animal-borne) RNA virus. Initially, human MVD infection results from exposure to mines or caves inhabited by bat colonies.

What Causes Marburg Virus Disease?

Marburg spreads through:

• Human-to-human transmission via direct contact (through broken skin or mucous membranes) with blood, secretions, or other bodily fluids of infected people.
• Direct contact with surfaces and materials (e.g., bedding, clothing) contaminated with these fluids.

Symptoms

• After an incubation period of 2-21 days, symptoms onset is sudden and marked by fever, chills, headache, and myalgia.
• Around the fifth day after onset, a maculopapular rash, most prominent on the trunk (chest, back, abdomen), may occur.
• Symptoms become increasingly severe and can include jaundice, inflammation of the pancreas, severe weight loss, and other advanced symptoms.

Who is at Risk of Marburg Virus Infection?

• Close contact with fruit bats or their secretions, such as travelers visiting caves or mines inhabited by infected bats.
• Families of patients and hospital staff.

Treatment

No vaccine or antiviral treatment is approved for Marburg virus disease. Early intensive supportive care including rehydration and treatment of specific symptoms can improve survival.

Preventive Measures

• Avoid close contact with sick people or contaminated surfaces.
• Avoid caves/mines where bats are found and avoid contact with susceptible animals like monkeys.
• Wash hands frequently with soap and water, or use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
• Avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth unless hands are clean.
• Travelers from affected regions must isolate and seek medical attention if symptoms occur within 21 days.