Marburg Virus Disease Is Similar To Ebola, But What Is It? Do Vaccines Exist?

(CTN News) – Tanzania and Equatorial Guinea have experienced their first outbreak of Marburg virus disease, a viral fever that causes uncontrolled bleeding.

Equatorial Guinea, which is located on the west central African coast, confirmed 13 additional cases last week since the outbreak of Marburg disease began in mid-February.

According to figures released last week, nine patients have died and one has recovered.

World Health Organization (WHO) urges the country’s government to report new cases.

Do you know what the Marburg virus is and how deadly it is?

In rare cases, Marburg virus disease causes hemorrhagic fevers. Most outbreaks occur on the African continent.

Marburg virus is naturally transmitted to humans by fruit bats.

WHO data shows that case fatality rates range from 24 to 88%.

In what ways does it manifest itself?

Blood-stained vomit and diarrhoea are common symptoms.

In a statement, the World Health Organization explained that Marburg is a virus from the same family as Ebola, with symptoms that are broadly similar.

The virus cannot be treated with vaccines or antiviral drugs.

The chances of patients surviving may increase if they are treated for specific symptoms and rehydrated.

Marburg is transmitted in what way?

The Marburg virus spreads from person to person through direct contact

• Bloody skin or mucous membranes

• Body fluids, organs, or secretions of infected individuals

• Contaminated surfaces and materials, such as bedding and clothing.

A healthcare worker has previously been infected while treating a known patient.

Direct contact with the body of the deceased may also contribute to the transmission of Marburg.

Can you tell me when the Marburg virus was first detected?

Two German cities, Marburg and Frankfurt, and Belgrade, Serbia, reported outbreaks in 1967.

Has the Marburg virus been detected elsewhere?

Tanzania has confirmed its first eight cases of the disease, including five deaths, in the north-west Kagera region, along with Equatorial Guinea.

Marburg virus disease outbreaks have also been reported in:

• In 2021, Guinea

• In 2017, 2014, 2012, and 2007, Uganda was

• In 2004-2005, Angola

• During the years 1998 and 2000, the Democratic Republic of Congo

• 1990, 1987, 1980: Kenya

• The South African economy in 1975.

Health officials: what are they doing?

As part of the WHO’s response, local authorities and vaccine manufacturers are working together to set up trials in affected countries.

WHO’s Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus announced last week that the WHO is aware of additional cases.

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