Marburg disease
Key points
- Marburg hemorrhagic fever is a rare viral disease that occurs primarily in countries in East and Central Africa.
- The virus has the potential to spread from person to person, especially among health-care staff and family members who care for patient with Marburg VHF.
- After an incubation period of 5-10 days, the disease usually presents with sudden fever, chills, and muscle aches.
- Around the fifth day after onset of symptoms, a skin rash can occur.
Alternative names
Marburg Hemorrhagic Fever, Marburg virus, Marburg
Definition
Marburg hemorrhagic fever is a rare viral disease that occurs primarily in countries in East and Central Africa. The virus has the potential to spread from person to person, especially among health-care staff and family members who care for patient with Marburg VHF. After an incubation period of 5-10 days, the disease usually presents with sudden fever, chills, and muscle aches. Around the fifth day after onset of symptoms, a skin rash can occur. Nausea, vomiting, chest pain, a sore throat, abdominal pain, and diarrhea may follow. Symptoms become increasingly severe and may include jaundice, severe weight loss, mental confusion, shock, and multi-organ failure.
Written and revised by
Gerald Hurowitz, M.D.
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