The Marburg virus is a highly infectious virus that is classified as a member of the family Filoviridae, which also includes the Ebola virus. The virus is named after the German city of Marburg, where an outbreak occurred in 1967. The Marburg virus is considered to be one of the most deadly viruses known to man.
The Marburg virus is transmitted to humans through direct contact with the bodily fluids of an infected animal, such as a fruit bat or a primate, or through direct contact with the bodily fluids of an infected person. Once a person is infected, the virus begins to multiply rapidly, leading to a range of symptoms, including fever, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue. As the virus progresses, it can cause severe bleeding, both internally and externally, as well as organ failure. In many cases, the virus can be fatal, with a mortality rate of up to 88%.
Guinea and Tanzania travel requires precaution
Fox News reveals that the CDC is warning travelers to Guinea and Tanzania about the deadly Marburg virus, which has epidemic potential. They are also sending personnel to assist in stopping the outbreaks in both countries.
Equatorial Guinea and Tanzania are facing their first known outbreaks of the virus, with nine confirmed cases in Equatorial Guinea and eight in Tanzania.
The CDC has urged travelers to take enhanced precautions, avoid non-essential travel, and watch for symptoms for three weeks after leaving the outbreak areas.
The CDC has compared the Marburg virus to Ebola and has previously investigated outbreaks of the virus in African countries, including tracking bat movements t to better understand how the virus can pass to humans.
The Marburg virus has several similarities to Ebola. Both viruses belong to the same family, Filoviridae, and cause similar symptoms such as fever, chills, muscle pain, weakness, and unexplained bleeding or bruising. They are also both transmitted through contact with the blood or body fluids of infected individuals, contaminated objects, or contact with animals like bats. Additionally, both viruses have high fatality rates and epidemic potential.
