The Marburg virus, caused by Marburg marburgvirus (MARV), was first identified in 1967 after hemorrhagic fever outbreaks occurred in laboratories in Serbia and Germany. Since its initial identification, Marburg virus outbreaks have primarily occurred in Africa. This is because the African fruit bat is the host of this virus. According to MSN, Ghana just reported a new Marburg virus outbreak on July 17, 2022.
Much like ebola, Marburg virus is a zoonotic disease. It can be transmitted from animals to humans. But this viral illness can also be transmitted between humans. This transmission occurs through engaging with the virus through infected surfaces, items, or bodily fluids. Currently, there are no cures for this viral illness. Treatment is symptomatic. However, even with treatment, this virus comes with a high mortality rate. In prior outbreaks, Marburg virus was fatal in 24-88% of cases.
In this moment recent outbreak, affecting Ghana’s Ashanti region, two men have died so far. Right now, 98 other people have been placed into quarantine. These are all individuals who had close contact with the men who died. Because this viral illness can spread so quickly, health authorities and leaders have been working to quickly contain the situation.
What is Marburg Virus?
As described above, the Marburg virus disease is a highly virulent disease caused by Marburg marburgvirus. The virus typically has an incubation period of around 2-21 days. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), symptoms often appear rapidly. Symptoms can include:
- Fever and chills
- Headache
- Muscle pain
- A maculopapular rash that often appears on the chest, back, and stomach
- Nausea and vomiting
- Chest and abdominal pain
- Sore throat
- Diarrhea
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes)
- Pancreatic inflammation
- Severe weight loss
- Liver failure
- Shock
- Confusion and/or delirium
- Massive hemorrhaging
- Multi-organ dysfunction
Because of its similarity to other infections, this illness can sometimes be difficult to diagnose. Learn more about this viral illness, its spread, symptoms, treatment, and more here.
