Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) is a severe and often fatal illness caused by the Marburg virus, a member of the family Filoviridae, which also includes the Ebola virus. MVD was first identified in 1967 following outbreaks that occurred simultaneously in Marburg and Frankfurt, Germany, as well as in Belgrade, Serbia, and in Marburg, Hesse, Germany.
The Marburg virus is zoonotic, meaning it is transmitted to humans through contact with infected animals. The natural hosts of the virus are thought to be fruit bats of the Pteropodidae family, commonly known as flying foxes. Human-to-human transmission occurs through direct contact with the blood, secretions, organs, or other bodily fluids of infected individuals. It can also occur through contact with surfaces or materials contaminated with these fluids.
The incubation period for MVD is typically 2 to 21 days, during which infected individuals may experience fever, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, and gastrointestinal symptoms. As the disease progresses, severe hemorrhagic manifestations, including bleeding from various body orifices, may occur. Severe cases can lead to multi-organ failure and death.
There is no specific treatment or vaccine for MVD. Supportive care, including fever and pain management, hydration, and treating complications is provided to patients. Early isolation and infection control measures are crucial to preventing further transmission of the virus.
Marburg Virus Disease represents a significant public health threat due to its high mortality rate, potential for person-to-person transmission, and absence of a specific treatment. Vigilance in surveillance, rapid response, and public health education are essential in minimizing the impact of this infectious disease.
