15/11/2025
Ethiopia confirmed the 1st case of Marburg Virus🦠
But Let's Break it down!. The question is, what is the Marburg Virus?
Marburg virus is a severe and often deadly viral disease caused by the Marburg virus, which is in the same family as Ebola.
Key Facts About Marburg Virus
1. Type of disease:
Viral hemorrhagic fever (VHF).
2. Symptoms start suddenly:
Usually 2–21 days after exposure. Early symptoms include:
High fever, Severe headache, Extreme weakness, Muscle aches
As it gets worse, symptoms may include: Vomiting and diarrhea, Abdominal pain, Bleeding (from gums, nose, or internal), Rash, Organ failure
3. How it spreads:
Through direct contact with blood, vomit, stool, saliva, or bodily fluids of an infected person.
Contact with surfaces/materials contaminated with these fluids.
It does not spread through air like the common cold.
4. Where it comes from:
Natural host: African fruit bats (Rousettus aegyptiacus).
Humans get infected through prolonged exposure to bat caves or sick people.
5. How dangerous is it?
Case fatality rate: 24% to 88%, depending on the outbreak and medical care.
6. Treatment:
There is no specific cure, but survival improves with: IV fluids and electrolytes, Treating infections, Oxygen support, Intensive supportive care
7. Prevention:
Avoid contact with bats and sick patients.
Use of protective gear (PPE) for caregivers and health workers.
Safe burial practices.
