Why is it in the news?
- The Marburg virus has emerged as a significant health threat in Rwanda, where the first case was reported late last month. The outbreak has resulted in at least 46 infections and 12 confirmed deaths, predominantly affecting medical workers.
- Given Rwanda’s limited healthcare resources—only 1,500 doctors for a population exceeding 13 million—the situation poses a serious challenge to the country’s healthcare system.
An Overview of Marburg Virus
About
- Marburg virus is one of the deadliest known pathogens, with case fatality rates between 24% and 88% depending on the outbreak.
- The virus was first identified in Marburg, Germany, in 1967, and subsequent outbreaks have mostly occurred in Africa.
- It belongs to the filovirus family, which includes Ebola, sharing clinical similarities and the potential for high fatality.
Transmission of Marburg Virus Disease (MVD)
- Initially, MVD was linked to exposure to caves or mines inhabited by Rousettus bats. It spreads through direct human-to-human contact with infected bodily fluids and indirectly via contaminated surfaces.
- Medical personnel are especially at risk during outbreaks due to inadequate infection control measures.
Symptoms and Fatality
- The incubation period for MVD ranges from 2 to 21 days, with symptoms including high fever, severe headache, muscle aches, watery diarrhea, abdominal pain, and vomiting.
- Many patients develop haemorrhagic symptoms, which can lead to severe blood loss and shock, resulting in death 8 to 9 days after symptom onset.
Prevention and Treatment
- There are currently no approved vaccines or specific treatments for MVD. Supportive care, such as rehydration, can improve survival.
- Rwanda’s Health Minister announced efforts to seek experimental vaccines and treatments. The Sabin Vaccine Institute has provided 700 doses of its experimental Marburg vaccine to Rwanda, aimed at protecting frontline healthcare workers during this critical outbreak.
