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A recent outbreak of the Marburg virus, colloquially known as the “bleeding eye virus,” has claimed 15 lives in Rwanda, raising alarms over its severe symptoms and high fatality rate. The virus, closely related to Ebola, causes Marburg virus disease (MVD), a severe hemorrhagic fever. The nickname “bleeding eye virus” stems from its most severe cases, where victims may experience bleeding from the eyes, nose, and mouth.
What Is the Marburg Virus?
The Marburg virus is a highly infectious pathogen belonging to the filovirus family, known for its deadly outbreaks. Fatality rates for MVD range between 24% and 88%, depending on the healthcare response and outbreak circumstances.
Symptoms of MVD
Symptoms usually emerge between 2 and 21 days after exposure. Early stages include:
- High fever
- Severe headache
- Muscle pain
- General malaise
By the third day, gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting typically occur. By day five, patients may experience severe bleeding, with fresh blood in vomit and feces, as well as from the nose, eyes, gums, and other body openings.
Some victims display “ghost-like” features, such as sunken eyes and extreme exhaustion. Death often occurs 8–9 days after symptom onset due to severe blood loss and shock.
How Does It Spread?
The Marburg virus is transmitted through:
- Direct contact with bodily fluids of infected individuals
- Contact with contaminated surfaces or materials
- Initial exposure to fruit bats, the natural hosts of the virus
Human-to-human transmission significantly amplifies the outbreak’s impact, especially in healthcare settings.
Diagnosis and Containment
Advanced laboratory tests, including RT-PCR and antigen detection, are critical for diagnosing the virus. Early detection is key to controlling the spread.
Treatment Options
There is currently no approved vaccine or specific antiviral treatment for MVD. Supportive care, including hydration, oxygen therapy, and treatment of symptoms, can improve outcomes. Experimental treatments, including monoclonal antibodies, are being developed but are not yet widely available.
Prevention Measures
Preventive steps include:
- Avoiding exposure to bats and infected individuals
- Strict infection control in healthcare facilities using personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Public health measures like contact tracing and quarantine
Vaccine Development
Although no approved vaccine exists, research into vaccines and antiviral treatments is ongoing. Organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) are spearheading efforts to improve diagnostic methods, containment strategies, and therapeutic options.
Global Response and Outlook
As health authorities in Rwanda and international agencies collaborate to contain the outbreak, the focus remains on preventing further spread, improving care, and advancing research. Public awareness and adherence to safety protocols are vital in mitigating the crisis.
For more updates on the Marburg virus and safety guidelines, stay tuned.
