Burundi identifies the beginning of the Marburg virus outbreak
Marburg virus disease (MVD) is a highly infectious viral hemorrhagic fever in the same family as the virus that causes Ebola.
The first group of cases was found in 1967, after laboratory workers in Marburg and Frankfurt, Germany, became ill with a mysterious illness. The disease was later found to have come from African green monkeys imported from Uganda.
In 2008, the largest Marburg virus outbreak on record occurred in Uganda. There were 252 cases, including 173 deaths. The outbreak began in a gold mine in the eastern part of the country, and it is believed that the miners became infected after coming into contact with fruit bats.
The Marburg virus is transmitted through contact with the blood, secretions, organs, or other bodily fluids of an infected person. The virus can also be transmitted through contact with surfaces or objects that have been contaminated with the virus.
Symptoms of Marburg virus disease
The symptoms of Marburg virus disease typically appear within 2 to 21 days after exposure to the virus.
The most common symptoms include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Joint pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Rash
- Bleeding
- Organ failure
Treatment for Marburg virus disease
There is no specific treatment for Marburg virus disease. Treatment is supportive and includes providing fluids, electrolytes, and other supportive care.
Prevention of Marburg virus disease
There is no vaccine to prevent Marburg virus disease. The best way to prevent infection is to avoid contact with the blood, secretions, organs, or other bodily fluids of an infected person.
Other preventive measures include:
- Washing your hands frequently with soap and water
- Avoiding contact with bats and other animals that may be carrying the virus
- Cooking meat and fish thoroughly
- Avoiding contact with blood and other bodily fluids of sick people
- Getting vaccinated against Ebola virus disease
Conclusion
Marburg virus disease is a serious illness, but it can be prevented by taking precautions to avoid contact with the virus.
If you think you may have been exposed to the Marburg virus, seek medical attention immediately.
