Marburg Fact Sheet

WHAT IS MARBURG?

Marburg virus disease (MVD), formerly known as Marburg Hemorrhagic fever, is a severe, often fatal illness in humans. Nine out of 10 people infected with the virus will die without treatment. Survival rates increase with early treatment at a treatment center.

HOW DOES MARBURG SPREAD?

From animals to humans
The Marburg virus disease is passed to humans from infected fruit bats, often found in mines or caves. It can also be transmitted through contact with wild animals.

From humans to humans
– Through direct contact with blood, bodily fluids (such as vomit, saliva, urine and semen) from a person sick with Marburg virus disease
– Through contact with contaminated surfaces or materials like bedding, clothing or medical equipment used by a person who is sick with Marburg virus disease
– When handling the body of someone who has died from Marburg virus disease
– From mother to child during pregnancy, delivery and breastfeeding.