Rwanda confirmed 26 cases Marburg virus disease outbreak

The recent outbreak of Marburg virus disease in Rwanda has emerged as a significant public health crisis, with 26 confirmed cases and eight reported deaths as of late September 2024 . The Marburg virus, a highly contagious hemorrhagic fever similar to Ebola, poses serious risks due to its high fatality rate, which can reach up to 88% (. Most of the affected individuals are healthcare workers who have been on the front lines of this crisis. This alarming situation has prompted Rwandan authorities to declare a public health emergency and seek assistance from the World Health Organization (WHO) in controlling the outbreak

Marburg, with a fatality rate of up to 88%, is from the same virus family as Ebola. It spreads to humans from fruit bats and then through contact with bodily fluids of infected individuals.

In new guidelines to halt the spread of Marburg, the health ministry said no more than 50 people should attend the funeral of a person who died from the disease.

Institutions and partners are working to trace those who have been in contact with the virus-affected individuals, the minister added.

With a fatality rate of as high as 88%, Marburg is from the same virus family as the one responsible for Ebola and is transmitted to people from fruit bats. It then spreads through contact with bodily fluids of infected people.

Marburg virus disease is highly virulent and causes haemorrhagic fever, with a fatality ratio of up to 88%. It is in the same family as the virus that causes Ebola virus disease. Illness caused by Marburg virus begins abruptly, with high fever, severe headache and severe malaise. Many patients develop severe haemorrhagic symptoms within seven days. The virus is transmitted to people from fruit bats and spreads among humans through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected people, surfaces and materials.

The source of the outbreak remains unidentified; however, it is crucial for public health officials to emphasize preventive measures. The government has urged citizens to avoid physical contact with others to mitigate further transmission . In light of this outbreak, there is an urgent need for research into potential treatments and vaccines for Marburg virus disease. Historically recognized since its identification in 1967 in Germany, the natural reservoir for this virus is believed to be African fruit bats. Addressing this public health challenge will require coordinated efforts at both national and international levels.

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Sarah H

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