What are the symptoms of Marburg virus disease?
Symptoms of Marburg happen in two phases. The first phase of symptoms lasts five to seven days and includes:
- Fever.
- Chills.
- Severe headache.
- Cough.
- Muscle or joint pain.
- Sore throat.
- Rash. This might have raised and flat areas (maculopapular).
You might get a little better for a day or two, then additional symptoms start. The second phase of symptoms can include:
- Abdominal or chest pain.
- Vomiting.
- Diarrhea.
- Dizziness.
- Unintended weight loss.
- Bloody poop or vomit.
- Bleeding from your nose, mouth, eyes or vagin*.
- Confusion.
Seek immediate medical attention if you have these symptoms.
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What causes Marburg virus disease?
Two related viruses, Marburg virus (MARV) and Ravn virus (RAVV) cause MVD. They’re also related to the virus that causes Ebola. Marburg virus disease is a viral hemorrhagic fever, which can damage your blood vessels and cause severe bleeding.
How does Marburg virus disease spread?
Marburg virus spreads through contact with body fluids of infected humans or animals.
Body fluids include:
- Blood.
- Pee (urine).
- Poop (stool).
- Spit (saliva).
- Human milk.
- sem*n.
- vagin*l fluids.
You can also get it from surfaces, objects or medical devices that are contaminated with the virus.
How do humans get Marburg virus?
Experts think Egyptian rousettes (fruit bats) typically carry MARV and RAVV. People usually get infected through contact with body fluids or tissues from infected bats or nonhuman primates, like monkeys. Then, it can spread to other humans, usually close family members or healthcare providers caring for them.
What are the risk factors for Marburg virus disease?
You’re at risk for MVD if you:
- Work with animals that can carry it.
- Work in mines, caves or other environments where fruit bats live.
- Are in close contact with or caring for someone who’s infected with it.
