Ebola virus and Marburg virus

Ebola and Marburg viruses are responsible for well-documented outbreaks of severe human hemorrhagic fever, with resultant case mortality rates ranging from 23% for Marburg virus (Marburg, Germany; 1967) to 89% for Ebola virus (Democratic Republic of the Congo [DRC]; formerly Zaire; Dec 2002 to Apr 2003). Ebola virus (Reston, Va; 1989) has also caused a highly lethal disease in cynomolgus macaques (Macaca fascicularis) imported into Reston, Va, from the Philippines, but it caused no deaths among 4 infected employees who worked at the primate facility that housed these animals.  

Ebola virus and Marburg virus are related viruses that cause hemorrhagic fevers — illnesses marked by severe bleeding (hemorrhage), organ failure and, in many cases, death. Both Ebola virus and Marburg virus are native to Africa, where sporadic outbreaks have occurred for decades.

Ebola virus and Marburg virus live in animal hosts, and humans can contract the viruses from infected animals. After the initial transmission, the viruses can spread from person to person through contact with body fluids or contaminated needles. 

No drug has been approved to treat Ebola virus or Marburg virus. People diagnosed with Ebola or Marburg virus receive supportive care and treatment for complications. Scientists are coming closer to developing vaccines for these deadly diseases.