Marburg virus outbreak: Warning issued against deadly 'bleeding eye' virus in 17 countries; 15 die so far
Advanced symptoms include bleeding from the nose, mouth, eyes, or vagina, bloody stools or vomiting, and confusion
PTC Web Desk: Travellers have been cautioned about the potential spread of the Marburg virus, nicknamed the "bleeding eye" virus, alongside mpox and Oropouche fever in 17 countries. The virus, which has claimed over 15 lives in Rwanda and is suspected to have infected hundreds more, is raising global concern.
What Is the Marburg Virus?
The Marburg virus is a severe illness causing viral hemorrhagic fever. It is known for damaging blood vessels and leading to significant bleeding, sometimes manifesting in the eyes. A member of the Ebola family, the virus originates from fruit bats and spreads to humans through direct contact with bodily fluids such as blood, saliva, or urine from an infected person.
Symptoms of 'bleeding eye' virus
The virus presents symptoms similar to Ebola, including: Fever, chills, and severe headaches; muscle or joint pain, cough, sore throat, and rash. Severe cases involve abdominal or chest pain, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, and unintended weight loss.
Advanced symptoms include bleeding from the nose, mouth, eyes, or vagina, bloody stools or vomiting, and confusion. Patients in critical stages may appear with "ghost-like" features, deep-set eyes, expressionless faces, and extreme lethargy, as described by the World Health Organization (WHO).
The mortality rate of the Marburg virus ranges between 24% and 88%, depending on the strain and quality of medical care. In October, the Rwandan health authorities implemented stringent containment measures, including isolating patients and contact tracing, to curb its spread.
Treatment and prevention
Currently, no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine exists for the Marburg virus. Supportive care, including rehydration and symptom management, is crucial to improving survival rates. Experimental treatments such as blood products, immune therapies, and drug therapies are under evaluation, while vaccines are in the early stages of clinical trials.
Until effective treatments are widely available, public health measures like patient isolation, use of protective gear, and strict hygiene practices remain the primary defense against the virus, according to WHO.