The world’s deadliest cave Kitum, located in Mount Elgon National Park in Kenya, could cause the next pandemic, a ecent study have revealed. As per records, the cave is a home to some of the deadliest viruses in human history, including Ebola virus and Marburg virus. Now, experts worry that it may be home to the next pandemic- the Marburg virus, The World Health Organisation issued a warning, stating that the Marburg virus was “epidemic prone.”
What Is Marburg Virus?
Marburg Virus, a perilous pathogen with an alarming ability to spread, is turning heads across the globe with its capacity to trigger serious outbreaks. This piece probes into the depths of the Marburg Virus, exploring its roots, how it spreads, its symptoms, and steps to prevent it.
Understanding the Origins of Marburg Virus
The Marburg Virus is part of the Filoviridae family – the same family that the Ebola virus calls home. The virus made its first appearance in 1967 with outbreaks simultaneously surging in Marburg and Frankfurt in Germany, and Belgrade, Serbia. The core source of the Virus is speculated to be fruit bats, which are natural carriers of this contagion. Humans usually contract the virus through direct exposure with infected bats or their body fluids.
How Does The Marburg Virus Transmit?
Marburg Virus mainly spreads through direct interaction with body fluids of infected people. This includes fluids like saliva, blood, vomit, urine, and stool. Health workers are a high-risk group due to their professional interaction with patients. Direct contact with infected animals or their tissues can also transmit the virus. Other risk factors include infection via contaminated surfaces and medical tools.
Marburg Virus Symptoms
The latent period of Marburg Virus can extend from 2 to 21 days after contact. Early signs of the virus often mimic common ailments- fever, shivering, headaches, and body soreness. As the virus amplifies, severe symptoms such as intense diarrhea, vomiting, rash, and internal bleeding can develop. In some scenarios, the virus can trigger organ failure and cause death within days.
Detecting and Managing The Virus
Diagnosis of Marburg Virus is reliant on laboratory tests that spot the virus in blood, tissue samples, or other body fluids. There is currently no targeted antiviral treatment for Marburg Virus. The primary approach to managing the virus is supportive care that helps ease the symptoms and ward off complications. Patients are usually treated with intravenous fluids, pain control medications, and treatments for secondary infections.
How To Prevent The Virus Spread?
Preventing Marburg Virus from spreading hinges on stringent compliance with infection control norms, like wearing suitable personal protective gear like gloves, surgical masks, and protective clothing while caring for infected patients. Isolating patients and abiding by proper disinfection protocol are key in preventing the disease from spreading. Education and public health awareness initiatives can significantly contribute to preventing disease outbreaks.
