Marburg Virus Claims Over 12 Lives in Rwanda

The recent outbreak of the Marburg virus has resulted in the tragic deaths of over 12 people in Rwanda, underscoring the devastating impact of this highly infectious disease.

First identified in 1967 in Marburg, Germany, the Marburg virus belongs to the same family as the Ebola virus and is known for causing viral haemorrhagic fever, which leads to severe bleeding and organ failure. Its name is derived from the city of Ebola, where the virus is believed to have originated in African fruit bats, which carry the virus without showing symptoms.

Transmission: The Marburg virus is primarily zoonotic, transmitted from animals to humans, particularly through contact with infected fruit bats or the bodily fluids of infected individuals. Transmission often occurs during burial practices when mourners come into contact with the deceased's body or through close contact with contaminated objects like needles.

Symptoms: Symptoms can appear between 2 to 21 days after exposure, beginning with flu-like signs such as fever, headache, and muscle pain. As the infection progresses, more severe symptoms, including abdominal pain, diarrhoea, vomiting, and bleeding, may occur. Neurological symptoms, such as confusion and seizures, can also manifest in some patients.

Treatment: Unfortunately, no specific treatment or cure exists for the Marburg virus. Supportive care focuses on maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance and addressing any secondary infections. Early detection and prompt supportive care can significantly improve survival rates, which have averaged around 50% in past outbreaks.

Prevention: The best way to control the spread of the Marburg virus is through prevention. This includes avoiding contact with infected individuals or contaminated materials, practising good hygiene, and steering clear of wild animals, especially bats. Healthcare workers should adhere to stringent safety protocols when caring for infected patients to prevent further transmission.

This outbreak in Rwanda is not the first, as several outbreaks of the Marburg virus have been reported in Africa since its discovery.