What is the Marburg Virus Disease?

This is a severe often fatal hemorrhagic disease (similar to Ebola) caused by the Marburg virus (MARV) and Ravn virus (RAVV) which are part of the Filoviridae family (filovirus).

How is it spread?

The Marburg virus is transmitted to people from fruit bats and spreads among humans through human-to-human transmission via direct contact (through broken skin or mucous membranes) with the blood, secretions and bodily fluids of infected people, and with surfaces and materials (e.g. bedding, clothing) contaminated with these fluids.

The incubation period (interval from infection to onset of symptoms) varies from 2 to 21 days.

What are the symptoms?

1. High fever

2. Severe headache

3. Severe malaise.

4. Muscle aches

5. Diarrhea and abdominal symptoms

6. Non-itchy rash have been reported in patients between 2 and 7 days after onset of symptoms.

DAY 5 of disease patients may develop easy bleeding tendencies from orifices and in vomitus and stool which put them at risk of shock and death.

Who is at risk?

1-History of travel to areas with outbreaks

The World Health Organization has reported eight fatalities linked to a suspected outbreak of Marburg virus disease in Tanzania. Authorities are on high alert, with neighboring countries also being warned to prepare for potential cases as the situation develops

2-Healthcare workers

Can you test for MVD?

Yes, there are tests available if you meet the appropriate criteria.

Is there a vaccine or treatment?

There is currently no vaccine or antiviral treatment but early supportive care and symptomatic treatment can greatly improve outcome.

Please seek medical attention if concerned about any of the above or have had contact with anyone known to have similar symptoms