Marburg Virus Disease Outbreaks – A Systematic Review

Background: Marburg virus disease (MARV) is a highly virulent disease that presents a significant threat to public health. First identified in 1967, MARV has since manifested sporadically across various regions, with varying consequences. This systematic review aims to collate and analyze epidemiological data to understand the impact of MARV globally. Objective: The primary objective of this study was to synthesize data from past outbreaks to evaluate the epidemiological characteristics of MARV, understand its transmission dynamics, and assess the effectiveness of response strategies. Methods: We conducted a systematic search across several academic databases including MEDLINE, Google Scholar, and Web of Science, up until August 2023. Studies were included if they reported the total number of cases and fatalities during MARV outbreaks. The meta-analysis focused on case fatality rates (CFRs) and seroprevalence measurements. Data from health ministries, the World Health Organization, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention were used to verify the findings. Results: The review identified 16 studies for inclusion. The reported case fatality rates varied significantly across different outbreaks, with Angola (2006) reporting the highest number of cases (252) and deaths (227). The recent outbreak in Ghana (2023) indicated an uptick in both case numbers (40) and CFR (87.3%). The containment of an outbreak in Equatorial Guinea by June 2023 highlights the effectiveness of international cooperation and robust health systems. Conclusion: The study concludes that the Marburg virus remains a critical concern for global health, particularly in regions with previous outbreaks. The data underscore the necessity for improved public health preparedness and response strategies in high-risk areas to mitigate future outbreaks.