what is marburg

Marburg virus disease (MVD) is a severe and highly virulent disease that causes hemorrhagic fever, with a fatality ratio of up to 88% . It is caused by the Marburg virus, which is in the same family as the virus that causes Ebola virus disease. The illness caused by Marburg virus begins abruptly, with high fever, severe headache, and severe malaise. Muscle aches and pains are a common feature. Severe watery diarrhea, abdominal pain and cramping, nausea, and vomiting can begin on the third day. Diarrhea can persist for a week. The appearance of patients at this phase has been described as showing “ghost-like” drawn features, deep-set eyes, expressionless faces, and extreme lethargy. There is no proven treatment available for Marburg virus disease, but supportive care, rehydration with oral or intravenous fluids, and treatment of specific symptoms can improve survival. A range of potential treatments, including blood products, immune therapies, and drug therapies, are being studied.