MARBURG VIRUS

MARBURG VIRUS-All you need to know

Edited by, JOHN FELIX

The Marburg virus is similar to Ebola and it was first identified in 1967 which causes hemorrhagic fever in humans. The Marburg virus is a infectious disease that causes severe consequences. 

On August 9, 2021, West Africa's first case of the extremely contagious and deadly Marburg virus was confirmed in Guinea. The man who was affected with this virus have passed away. His death raised an alarm in the place, where he lived. The health department have initiated contact tracing and awareness campaigns to prevent the outbreak. 

WHAT IS MARBURG VIRUS?

The Marburg virus is a highly virulent infectious disease that causes hemorrhagic fever. It has a highest fatality rate of up to 88 %. Human infection with Marburg virus disease can spread through human-to-human transmission via direct contact (broken skin or mucous membrane), with the blood or other body fluids of infected people. Clothing's contaminated with these fluids may also transmit the disease.

SYMPTOMS:

The incubation period of Marburg virus disease is 5 to 10 days. The symptoms begins with fever, chills, headache and myalgia. Nausea, vomiting, chest pain, sore throat, abdominal pain and abdominal discomfort may begin later.

Rashes may occur on the chest, back and stomach. The complications of Marburg virus may include jaundice, inflammation of the pancreas, severe weight loss, shock, liver failure, hemorrhage and organ dysfunctions. Most people who get infected with this disease may die within 8 to 9 days after onset of symptoms. 

DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT:

The disease can be diagnosed by Polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and ELISA testing.

There is no proven treatment options or vaccines available till date. Supportive treatments, maintaining oxygen levels, and treatment for complicating infections can improve survival.

Sources: World Health Organisation, Times of India