The deadly Marburg virus, often referred to as the “bleeding eye” virus, has claimed at least 15 lives in Rwanda and infected hundreds over the last two months. The outbreak has also spread across 17 countries, raising global concerns about its rapid transmission and fatality rate.
Key Highlights of the Outbreak:
- Affected Countries: Includes Rwanda, Burundi, Congo, Kenya, and several South American nations like Brazil and Colombia.
- Global Advisory: The UK Health Security Agency has issued a warning for travelers to affected regions, urging vigilance.
- Other Risks: Clade 1 and Oropouche fever have also been flagged as significant threats in the same regions.
What Is the Marburg Virus?
The World Health Organization (WHO) describes the Marburg virus as a severe, often fatal hemorrhagic disease. Its natural host is the Rousettus aegyptiacus, a type of fruit bat.
- Origin: First identified in 1967 during outbreaks in Marburg and Frankfurt, Germany.
- Fatality Rate: Can reach up to 88% in severe cases.
Symptoms of the Marburg Virus
The disease manifests in stages, with symptoms worsening over time:
- Incubation Period: 2–21 days.
- Initial Symptoms:
- High fever
- Severe headache
- Muscle aches
- Fatigue
- Progression:
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Severe Stage (Day 5):
- Bleeding from eyes, nose, ears, gums, and other orifices.
- Blood in vomit and stool.
- Rarely, inflammation of testicles (orchitis).
In fatal cases, death typically occurs 8–9 days after symptoms begin, often due to severe blood loss or shock.
How Is It Transmitted?
The Marburg virus spreads through direct contact with:
- Blood, secretions, or bodily fluids of infected individuals.
- Contaminated surfaces or materials, such as bedding or clothing.
- Funeral practices involving direct contact with the deceased.
Healthcare workers treating Marburg patients are at high risk without proper protective measures.
Is There a Cure or Treatment?
Currently, there is no approved vaccine or antiviral treatment for the Marburg virus. However, supportive care can improve survival:
- Rehydration through oral or intravenous fluids.
- Symptomatic treatment to manage pain and fever.
Preventive Measures
To prevent infection, the following precautions are advised:
- Avoid direct contact with infected individuals or their belongings.
- Wear protective gear if working in healthcare or funeral services.
- Practice good hygiene, including frequent handwashing.
- Stay informed about outbreak locations before traveling.
Looking Ahead
The ongoing outbreak highlights the urgent need for robust surveillance and research into vaccines and treatments. As countries like Rwanda and global health organizations tackle this crisis, awareness and preventive actions remain key to controlling its spread.
