Rwanda dealing with first outbreak of deadly Marburg virus disease

Rwanda's Ministry of Health is facing its first-ever outbreak of Marburg virus disease, a rare but deadly hemorrhagic illness similar to Ebola. However, unlike Ebola, there are currently no treatments or vaccines for Marburg, and it has a fatality rate of up to 88%. Currently, the Ministry of Health reports that 26 people have been infected, with 18 receiving treatment and 8 having unfortunately passed away.

The World Health Organization (WHO) stated last weekend that, in addition to sending medical supplies, it will deploy a team of seven global hemorrhagic disease experts to Rwanda to provide guidance to local public health specialists. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also said on Monday that it would send experts to Rwanda to assist with testing and contact tracing efforts. There are currently no Marburg cases in the U.S., and the risk to the American public is low.

The CDC stated that it has been working in Rwanda since 2002 and has been closely collaborating with the country to strengthen its health system. The WHO noted that, unlike some other sub-Saharan African countries that have been hit by Marburg virus disease, Rwanda has a robust public health system. "With the country's already robust public health emergency response system, WHO is working closely with national authorities to provide the support needed to further enhance ongoing efforts," said Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa.

Dr. Brian Chirombo, WHO Representative in Rwanda, believes that the country is “capable and able to stop this outbreak very quickly.” Rwanda's Ministry of Health has stated that people can continue their daily activities, and the government is encouraging the public not to panic, as officials believe they have identified all the disease hotspots and are taking appropriate actions to prevent its spread. The virus has spread to 7 of the country's 30 districts. The Ministry of Health said that over 100 people who have had contact with infected individuals are being monitored or quarantined. Many of those infected are healthcare workers.

The Marburg virus is a filovirus that naturally exists in fruit bats. It belongs to the same family as the Ebola virus. The Marburg virus can spread between people through contact with an infected person's bodily fluids. People can also become infected after handling a sick person's clothing or bedding. Experts say that it is not an airborne virus like the coronavirus that causes COVID-19, making it easier to control. After exposure to the virus, it can take up to three weeks for symptoms to appear. The disease usually begins with a rash and fever. Patients may vomit and experience severe headaches and muscle aches.

In severe cases, infected individuals may experience bleeding from the nose, gums, and eyes, with internal bleeding manifesting as blood in vomit, urine, and stool. Severe blood loss can lead to shock and death. Scientists are working to develop vaccines and treatments, but current supportive care includes rest and fluid replacement.