Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: The “bleeding eye” virus, officially known as Marburg virus disease, has caused at least 15 deaths in Rwanda while infecting hundreds across 17 African countries over the past two months. The outbreak has raised alarm among health authorities worldwide.
Travel Advisory Issued
The UK Health Security Agency’s Travel Health Pro has issued warnings about the spread of Marburg virus in Rwanda, Burundi, Congo, Uganda, and other African countries. The advisory also cautioned against Clade 1 and Oropouche fever, urging travelers to exercise vigilance.
Understanding the Marburg Virus
The World Health Organization (WHO) describes Marburg virus disease as a severe and often fatal illness, previously referred to as Marburg hemorrhagic fever. The virus is naturally hosted by the Rousettus aegyptiacus, a fruit bat species.
Symptoms and Progression
•Incubation Period: 2 to 21 days.
•Early Symptoms: High fever, severe headache, muscle pain, and malaise.
•Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea, and vomiting typically begin by the third day.
•Hemorrhagic Symptoms (from Day 5): Bleeding from the eyes, nose, ears, gums, and other parts of the body, with blood in vomit and feces.
•Fatal Outcomes: Death often occurs 8-9 days after symptom onset due to severe blood loss and shock.
Modes of Transmission
The virus spreads via human-to-human transmission through direct contact with blood, bodily fluids, or tissues of infected individuals. Contaminated surfaces, healthcare settings, and funeral rituals involving contact with the deceased also contribute to its spread.
Current Treatment Options
There are no approved vaccines or antiviral treatments for Marburg virus. Supportive care, such as rehydration and symptomatic management, remains the only option to improve survival rates.
Global Concern
The rapid spread of the Marburg virus across multiple continents, including Africa and South America, highlights the urgent need for enhanced vigilance and global health cooperation to curb its transmission.
