The Marburg virus that causes Ebola raises the alarm in Africa. Marburg virus is the cause of hemorrhagic fever, which has a mortality rate of up to 88 percent, according to the World Health Organization. High fever, bleeding, and excruciating headache are some of the symptoms of viral disease. Marburg virus is transmitted to another person through direct contact with the blood and body fluids of an infected person.
Marburg virus belongs to the family of filoviruses, which includes the Ebola virus. Currently, there is no cure for the disease. Research is ongoing into potential cures and vaccines for the Marburg virus.
Marburg virus was first reported in Equatorial Guinea. Since then, many cases have been confirmed by the World Health Organization. African fruit bats are carriers of the Marburg virus. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has warned all travelers to Guinea and Tanzania to take precautions to avoid contracting the virus.
