Advancements in Marburg (MARV) Virus Vaccine Research With Its Recent Reemergence in Equatorial Guinea and Tanzania: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Given the recent outbreaks of the Marburg (MARV) virus within the first quarter of the year 2023, interest in the MARV virus has been re-ignited given its shared phylogeny with the dreadful Ebola virus. This relation gives some insight into its virulence, associated morbidities, and mortality rates. The first outbreak of MARV recorded was in Germany, in 1967, of which seven died out of 31 reported cases. Ever since, subsequent cases have been reported all over Africa, a continent replete with failing healthcare systems.  This reality impresses a need for a contemporary and concise revision of the MARV virus existing publications especially in the areas of vaccine research. A functional MARV vaccine will serve as a panacea to ailing communities within the African healthcare landscape.  The objective of this scoping review is to provide pertinent information relating to MARV vaccine research beginning with an outline of MARV's pathology and pathogenesis in addition to the related morbidities, existing therapies, established outbreak protocols as well as areas of opportunities.