History of Infection: Marburg Haemorrhagic Fever: A Review

Marburg virus belongs to the same virus family, filoviridae, as the virus, which causes Ebola haemorrhagic fever. Marburg virus was first recognized in 1967 when outbreaks of haemorrhagic fever occurred in Marburg and Frankfurt in Germany and in Belgrade in the former Yugoslavia. Multiple organ failure Severe bleeding, Jaundice, Delirium, Seizures, Coma and Shock are common symptoms. Nosocomial transmission via contaminated syringes and needles has been a major problem. Transmission by droplets and small-particle aerosols was observed in outbreaks among experimentally infected (Marburg) and quarantined imported monkeys. Many people were infected as a result of being exposed to African green monkeys imported from Uganda. Secondary spread of the disease is via contact with infected persons or contact with blood, secretions, or excretions of infected persons. The virus may continue to be shed in the patient's semen for up to 3–4 months after illness. One reason the viruses are so deadly is that they interfere with the immune system's ability to mount a defense. ELISA can reveal the correct diagnosis. Till today, no vaccine is available but supportive hospital therapy should be utilized including balancing the patient's fluids and electrolytes, maintaining their oxygen status and blood pressure, replacing lost blood and clotting factors and treating them for any complicating infections.