New DelhiAs the world grapples with COVID-19 and the fast-spreading monkeypox, another virus could be a cause for concern – marburg virus, The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the first outbreak of Marburg virus in Ghana after two infected patients died of the disease last month. The first case was of a 26-year-old male, who got examined at the hospital on June 26 and died on June 27. The other was a 51-year-old male who went to the hospital on June 28 and died the same day, the WHO said, adding that both the men sought treatment at the same hospital.
What is Marburg virus?
Marburg virus is a rare but severe hemorrhagic fever that can infect both humans and animals. According to the WHO, it has a case fatality rate of up to 88 percent, but with good care and treatment it can be reduced.
What are the symptoms of Marburg virus?
Marburg virus, when contracted by a person, shows itself in sudden symptoms. Patients may experience:
- high fever
- severe headache
- ill feeling
- muscle aches and pains
- watery diarrhea
- abdominal pain and cramps
- excessive lethargy
- Bleeding (fatal cases)
- Vomiting, blood in stool (fatal cases)
How does Marburg virus spread?
Marburg virus spreads through direct contact between humans. This means it can spread through broken skin or mucous membranes. Blood, secretions, and other bodily fluids from infected people left on surfaces and materials can infect other people.
Is there a vaccine for Marburg virus?
Unfortunately, there is no vaccine or antiviral treatment for Marburg virus disease. The only way to treat the disease is rehydration with oral or other fluids.
A special type of bats commonly known as fruit bats are known to carry the virus. African green monkeys imported from Uganda were a source of infection for humans during the first Marburg outbreak.
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