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A measles outbreak is currently underway in the Middle East. As of March 8, 2023, there have been over 10,000 cases reported in the region, with the majority of cases in Yemen, Iraq, and Syria. The outbreak is being driven by low vaccination rates, conflict, and displacement. Measles is a highly contagious respiratory illness that can cause serious complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis, and death. The measles vaccine is safe and effective, and it is the best way to protect children from this disease. If you are traveling to the Middle East, it is important to make sure that you are up-to-date on your measles vaccination. You can also help to protect yourself and others by washing your hands frequently and avoiding close contact with people who are sick. Here is some additional information about the measles outbreak in the Middle East: The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the outbreak a "public health emergency of international concern." The Unit...

Marburg virus is a highly virulent, hemorrhagic fever-causing virus belonging to the Filoviridae family, which also includes the Ebola virus. Marburg virus was first identified in 1967, when outbreaks occurred simultaneously in Marburg and Frankfurt, Germany, and in Belgrade, Yugoslavia, among laboratory workers who had come into contact with infected African green monkeys imported from Uganda. Transmission and Pathogenesis: The natural reservoir of Marburg virus is believed to be fruit bats of the Pteropodidae family, which are found in parts of Africa. Human infections occur through direct or indirect contact with infected bats, primates, or other infected humans. Once the virus enters the body, it replicates in the mononuclear phagocytic system, including macrophages and dendritic cells. The virus then spreads throughout the body via the bloodstream, causing damage to multiple organs, including the liver, spleen, and lymph nodes. Clinical Manifestations: Marburg virus infect...