Marburg Virus

Definition

Marburg virus is a highly infectious pathogen that causes Marburg virus disease, a severe hemorrhagic fever in humans and non-human primates. First identified in 1967 during outbreaks in Marburg and Frankfurt, Germany, the virus is part of the filovirus family, which includes other deadly viruses like Ebola. The virus is transmitted to humans through direct contact with infected bodily fluids and has a high mortality rate, making it a significant concern for public health.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Marburg virus has an estimated fatality rate ranging from 23% to 90%, depending on the outbreak and the virus strain.
2. Natural reservoirs for Marburg virus are believed to be fruit bats, particularly species like the Egyptian fruit bat.
3. The disease caused by Marburg virus starts with symptoms such as fever, chills, headache, and muscle aches, followed by more severe symptoms including vomiting blood and organ failure.
4. Transmission occurs through direct contact with infected individuals or their bodily fluids, including blood, vomit, and saliva.
5. There are no specific treatments approved for Marburg virus infection; however, supportive care and experimental treatments are used during outbreaks.

Review Questions

• What are the main characteristics of the Marburg virus that contribute to its severity as a pathogen?
  • The Marburg virus is characterized by its high infectivity and potential for severe disease outcomes. It is part of the filovirus family and has a mortality rate that can range significantly based on outbreak conditions. The mode of transmission through direct contact with bodily fluids makes it particularly dangerous in healthcare settings and during outbreaks. Additionally, its zoonotic origins linked to fruit bats highlight the importance of animal reservoirs in the emergence of viral diseases.
• Discuss how zoonotic transmission plays a role in the spread of the Marburg virus among human populations.
  • Zoonotic transmission is critical for understanding how the Marburg virus spreads to humans. The primary reservoirs are fruit bats, which can carry the virus without showing symptoms. When humans come into contact with these bats or handle their droppings or secretions, they can become infected. This initial transmission event is often followed by human-to-human transmission during outbreaks, especially in healthcare settings where protective measures may not be properly implemented.
• Evaluate the public health strategies necessary to manage and control outbreaks of Marburg virus disease effectively.
  • Effective management of Marburg virus outbreaks requires a multi-faceted public health approach. Strategies include rapid identification and isolation of cases to prevent further transmission, extensive contact tracing to monitor potential spread, and public awareness campaigns to educate communities about the risks. Healthcare workers must be equipped with proper protective gear to minimize exposure during treatment. Furthermore, research into vaccine development and antiviral therapies is essential to prepare for future outbreaks and enhance overall response capabilities.

Related terms

Filovirus: A family of viruses that includes Marburg and Ebola viruses, known for causing severe hemorrhagic fevers.

Hemorrhagic Fever: A severe illness characterized by fever and bleeding disorders, often associated with high mortality rates.

Zoonotic Transmission: The process by which diseases are transmitted from animals to humans, often a key factor in the emergence of viral infections like Marburg.