Mon Dec 02 19:08:32 UTC 2024: **Marburg Virus Outbreak in Africa Claims at Least 15 Lives; Global Travel Advisory Issued**
KIGALI, RWANDA—A Marburg virus outbreak in Rwanda has claimed at least 15 lives and infected hundreds more in the past two months, prompting a global travel advisory. The virus, also known as the “bleeding eye virus,” has spread across 17 African and South American countries, including Burundi, the Central African Republic, Congo, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, Kenya, Uganda, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Guyana, Panama, and Peru.
The UK Health Security Agency’s Travel Health Pro has warned travelers to these regions to exercise increased vigilance, also cautioning against Clade 1 and Oropouche fever, two other serious infectious diseases spreading in the affected areas.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Marburg virus disease is a severe and often fatal illness. The incubation period is two to 21 days, with symptoms including high fever, severe headache, muscle aches, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and vomiting. In later stages, patients may experience hemorrhagic manifestations, such as bleeding from the nose, eyes, and other orifices. Death typically occurs within eight to nine days in fatal cases.
The virus spreads through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected individuals or contaminated materials. Healthcare workers and those participating in funeral rites involving direct contact with the deceased are at increased risk. Currently, there are no approved vaccines or antiviral treatments, but supportive care can improve survival rates.
First Piper 