For the first time in its history, Rwanda's health ministry is confronting an outbreak of Marburg virus disease, a rare and deadly hemorrhagic illness similar to Ebola. Unlike Ebola, there are no treatments or vaccines available for Marburg, which has a fatality rate of 88%. According to the health ministry, 26 people have fallen ill, with 18 currently receiving treatment and eight fatalities reported.
In response to the outbreak, the World Health Organization (WHO) is deploying a team of seven global experts in hemorrhagic diseases to Rwanda to assist local public health officials. Over the weekend, they also sent medical supplies. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced it will send experts to aid in testing and contact tracing.
Currently, there are no cases of Marburg in the United States, and the risk to Americans from this outbreak remains low. The CDC has maintained a presence in Rwanda since 2002, collaborating closely with the country to enhance its health system.
Rwanda benefits from a robust public health infrastructure, which WHO has acknowledged. Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO’s regional director for Africa, stated that the organization is working closely with national authorities to bolster ongoing efforts. Dr. Brian Chirombo, the WHO representative in Rwanda, expressed confidence in the country’s ability to swiftly contain the outbreak.
Rwanda's Ministry of Health reassured the public that they can continue with their daily activities, urging calm as officials believe they have identified all disease hotspots and are taking measures to prevent further spread. The virus has affected seven of the country’s 30 districts, with more than 100 individuals who have had contact with infected persons under monitoring or in isolation. Many of the sickened individuals are healthcare workers.
Marburg is transmitted through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected individuals and can also spread through handling contaminated clothing or bedding. Unlike the airborne virus that causes COVID-19, Marburg is easier to control. Symptoms can take up to three weeks to manifest and typically begin with a rash and fever, followed by severe headaches, muscle aches, vomiting, and in severe cases, bleeding from the nose, gums, and eyes, along with blood in vomit, urine, and stool. Severe blood loss can lead to shock and death.
While scientists are working to develop vaccines and treatments, current supportive care focuses on rest and hydration.
Credit:CNN.
