Marburg Virus: Still a World Leading Mortality Virus.

Introduction

On the dawn of 1967, an infected monkey imported from Uganda infected some German scientists in a lab with an unknown virus. Later discovered to be the Marburg virus, it has since instilled panic, terror, and death under its power. Formerly known as Marburg hemorrhagic fever (Marburg HF), this virus belongs to the Filoviridae family, where the Ebola virus is also enlisted—certainly a deadly list of viruses. This virus affects both humans and mammals of all kinds and impacts brain functionality in a unique way (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, n.d.).

Virus Characteristics

The Marburg virions are filamentous particles appearing in the shape of a shepherd's crook or in the shape of a "U" or a "6". They may also be coiled, toroid, or even branched. Like all mononegaviruses, Marburg virions contain non-infectious, linear nonsegmented, single-stranded RNA genomes of negative polarity (World Health Organization, 2021).

Mode of Transmission

A very deadly virus like this takes advantage of even the slightest opportunity to spread and infect everyone within its reach. Inter-transmission through body fluids and unprotected broken skin is its primary spread method among humans. Marburg virus can also spread through air or contact with an infected fruit. In some parts of the world, the consumption of infected bush meat, forest animals, chimpanzees, and wild bats also spreads this virus. Even more concerning, wearing the clothes of infected victims or handling infected objects spreads this disease rapidly. Contrary to popular belief, Marburg viruses do not simply get transmitted by aerosol during natural outbreaks (World Health Organization, 2021). Due to the absence of an approved vaccine, prevention of Marburg virus disease relies predominantly on behavior modification, proper use and maintenance of personal protective equipment, and sterilization.

Symptoms of Marburg Disease

Once infected with this virus, the victim continues their usual lifestyle for a couple of days before noticing body signs and symptoms. These symptoms typically include fever, chills, headache, and muscle aches, which can be followed by a rash and more severe manifestations such as hemorrhaging (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, n.d.).

The Mortality Rate of Marburg Disease

The case fatality rate for all infected victims has been between 50%-95%. Belonging to the Filoviridae family of viruses, where Ebola and other deadly viruses are listed, the Marburg virus seems to be the most silent and harsh killer. Just like the Ebola virus, victims with suspected signs and symptoms are isolated for quarantine. Traced to Uganda, the first virus infection was noticed in 2012 where 15 persons were diagnosed, and 4 died quickly, making it a 27% fatality rate recorded. Again, the Ugandan Ministry of Health reported on Oct. 5, 2014, that a healthcare worker died of Marburg virus disease on Sept 30, 2014 (World Health Organization, 2021). During its outbreak in 1967, 31 persons were infected, and 7 died. Between the period of 1988 to 2000, 154 persons were infected, and 128 persons died, recording an 83% mortality rate. It has succeeded in dominating as one of the world's most silent weapons. Another noteworthy death toll was in Angola between the period of 2004 to 2005, in Africa, where 252 got infected with the Marburg virus, and 227 died, recording a 90% mortality rate (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, n.d.).

Prevention Methods

Prevention is the only guide to staying away from this deadly disease. Avoiding contacts with bats and forest animals, as well as abstaining from visits to forest caves, is highly recommended. Awareness programs should be carried out in isolated world regions to educate people about the risks and prevention methods (World Health Organization, 2021). The Marburg virus is a reminder of the importance of global health preparedness and the need for ongoing research into vaccines and treatments for emerging infectious diseases.

Conclusion

With its high mortality rate and rapid spread, the Marburg virus remains a significant public health threat. Continued vigilance, research, and education are crucial in combating this deadly virus and preventing future outbreaks.

References

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Marburg Virus. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/vhf/marburg/index.html
• World Health Organization. (2021). Marburg virus disease. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/marburg-virus-disease