Marburg Virus Disease Kills 8 In Tanzania: What Is MVD? What Are Its Symptoms?

The World Health Organization has flagged a suspected Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) in the Kagera region of the United Republic of Tanzania. The virus has reportedly killed eight among the nine persons it infected.

"As of 11 January 2025, nine suspected cases were reported including eight deaths (case fatality ratio (CFR) of 89%) across two districts – Biharamulo and Muleba," the WHO said in a notification.

Two more samples of suspected cases have been sent for evaluation and results are awaited, the global health body said.

"The risk of this suspected MVD outbreak is assessed as high at the national level due to several concerning factors. The suspected outbreak thus far involves at least nine suspected cases, including eight deaths, resulting in a high CFR of 89%," it added.

While the risk of Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) remains high in Tanzania, the global risk is currently low. At this stage, there have been no confirmed cases of international spread, though concerns about potential risks persist.

Here is what you need to know about the Marburg Virus Disease or MVD.

The Marburg Virus Disease is severe and often fatal in humans. It is caused by the Marburg virus (MARV) and Ravn virus (RAVV). The Marburg virus gets transmitted from fruit bats to humans and thereafter spreads among a community through human-to-human transmission.

Rousettus aegyptiacus, a fruit bat of the Pteropodidae family, is considered the natural host of the Marburg virus, according to the WHO. The Marburg disease is similar to Ebola, with both being rare but having the potential to cause outbreaks with high fatality rates.

MVD starts suddenly with high fever, severe headache and severe malaise, though the virus has an incubation period of two to 21 days. Patients may also feel muscle pains. From the third day onwards, one may experience severe diarrhoea, stomach pain, nausea and vomiting.

From the fifth day, patients may see blood in vomit and stool, and may also bleed from the nose, gums and vagina. The virus can affect the central nervous system, resulting in confusion, irritability and aggression.

If unchecked, patients may die within eight or nine days after the onset of the symptoms, usually preceded by blood loss or shock.

Currently, there are no vaccines or specific treatments for MVD. However, early intensive support care and treatment of symptoms can reduce the chances of death.