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Marburg Hemorrhagic Fever


About this topic


Marburg hemorrhagic fever is also called MHF. It is caused by a germ that may be found in some monkeys or bats. Experts do not know how animals and humans get infected by the germ that causes this illness. ‚  
This type of germ can harm your white blood cells and blood vessels. You may also have problems with a low platelet count which can cause bleeding. Signs will appear 5 to 10 days after being exposed to the germ. The signs may get much worse and can cause death. ‚  

What are the causes?


  • MHF is caused by the Filovirus germ.
  • The germ can spread by direct contact with infected blood, urine, feces, and saliva.

What can make this more likely to happen?


  • Close contact with infected bats and monkeys
  • Caring for people who have MHF
  • If you live or travel in some parts of the world like:
    • East and Central Africa
    • Uganda
    • Zimbabwe
    • Congo
    • Kenya
    • Angola

What are the main signs?


Early signs: ‚  
  • Fever and chills
  • Rash, often on the trunk
  • Headache
  • Belly pain and throwing up
  • Loose stools
  • Sore throat
  • Muscle pain
  • Lightheadedness
  • Lack of strength

Late signs: ‚  
  • Low blood pressure
  • Yellowing of the skin and eyes
  • Eye problems
  • Seizures
  • Severe weight loss
  • Being confused
  • Shock
  • Bleeding
  • Damage to many organs, such as swelling of the pancreas or liver failure

How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?


Your doctor will take your history and do an exam. The doctor will look for bleeding, bruises, swelling, and rashes. Your mental ability may be tested. The doctor may ask about nosebleeds or bleeding from your gums. You may need to have: ‚  
  • Blood culture
  • Blood tests
  • Other lab tests

How does the doctor treat this health problem?


There is no specific treatment for MHF. The doctor will treat your signs. Care will often include rest, fluids, and drugs to help control signs. You may need help breathing and keeping up your blood pressure. You may need a blood transfusion if you have lost a lot of blood. ‚  

Are there other health problems to treat?


Problems with your platelets and blood clotting can cause you to have bleeding from your: ‚  
  • Nose
  • Gums
  • Stools
  • Urine

What lifestyle changes are needed?


Eat foods high in iron. These include liver, clams, oysters, pumpkin, spinach, prunes, raisins, and apricots. ‚  

What drugs may be needed?


The doctor may order drugs to: ‚  
  • Stop bleeding and help the blood to clot
  • Lower fever
  • Keep your fluids up
  • Ease headache
  • Ease muscle and joint pain

What problems could happen?


  • Very serious bleeding
  • Liver problems
  • Swelling of the testicles in men
  • Kidney problems
  • Eye problems
  • Problems with the nervous system

What can be done to prevent this health problem?


  • Avoid close contact with those who are sick.
  • Practice good personal hygiene and proper hand washing. This can help prevent the spread of infection.
  • Avoid close contact with sick or dead animals, especially bats and monkeys.
  • If you are caring for a patient with MHF:
    • Take good care of your health.
    • Wear a protective gown, gloves, and face mask.
    • Practice proper disposal of needles, devices, and other materials used.

Where can I learn more?


Center for Disease Prevention and Control ‚  
http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvrd/spb/mnpages/dispages/marburg/qa.htm ‚  
http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvrd/spb/mnpages/dispages/fact_sheets/fact_sheet_marburg_hemorrhagic_fever.pdf ‚  

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer


This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚  

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