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Marburg Virus Outbreak
Context
Rwanda is currently facing a serious health crisis with the emergence of the Marburg virus, a deadly pathogen that poses a significant threat to the country's fragile healthcare system.
What is the Marburg Virus?
- Marburg virus is one of the deadliest known pathogens, with case fatality rates ranging from 24% to 88% depending on the outbreak and case management.
- The virus was first identified during an outbreak in Marburg, Germany, in 1967. Since then, outbreaks have predominantly occurred in Africa.
- Marburg belongs to the filovirus family, which also includes Ebola. Both viruses share clinical similarities and can cause outbreaks with high fatality rates.
- Spread: The initial human infections with Marburg virus were linked to prolonged exposure to mines or caves inhabited by colonies of Rousettus bats, particularly the Egyptian fruit bat. However, the World Health Organization (WHO) notes that the virus also spreads through human-to-human transmission. This can occur:
- Directly: Through contact with the blood and bodily fluids of infected individuals.
- Indirectly: Via surfaces and materials (such as bedding or clothing) that are contaminated with these fluids.
- Symptoms of Marburg Virus Disease: The incubation period for MVD ranges from 2 to 21 days. Initial symptoms include: High fever, Severe headache, Muscle aches, Severe watery diarrhea, Abdominal pain and cramping, Vomiting
- As the disease progresses, many patients develop hemorrhagic symptoms, which can include bleeding from the digestive system, nose, gums, and vagina. Most fatalities occur due to severe blood loss and shock, typically 8 to 9 days after symptoms begin.
- Prevention and Treatment of MVD: Currently, there are no approved vaccines or specific treatments for Marburg virus disease. However, the WHO recommends supportive care, which includes:
- Rehydration: Using oral or intravenous fluids.
- Symptom management: Treating specific symptoms to improve survival rates.
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