The death toll from the Marburg virus in Rwanda has now reached eleven, following the recent deaths of five additional individuals from this hemorrhagic fever, which is similar to Ebola. This information was announced Tuesday by the Ministry of Health.
The Marburg virus is highly dangerous, with a mortality rate of up to 88%. It causes severe fever, often accompanied by bleeding that affects multiple organs.
Since the outbreak began on September 27, the Rwandan Ministry of Health has confirmed 29 cases. Currently, 19 individuals are in isolation and receiving treatment throughout the country.
In an update released last Saturday, the ministry reported six fatalities. Most of those infected are healthcare professionals, as specified by the Africa CDC (African Centre for Disease Control and Prevention) on Tuesday. Approximately 290 contacts have been traced according to the institution.
Belonging to the filovirus family, which includes the Ebola virus, the Marburg virus is known for causing several deadly outbreaks in Africa. The virus can be transmitted from animals to nearby primates, including humans, with subsequent human-to-human transmission occurring through contact with blood or other bodily fluids.
While Rwanda has ruled out the implementation of a lockdown to combat the virus, officials have urged the public to avoid physical contact. Currently, there is no approved vaccine or antiviral treatment available for the virus; however, supportive care—such as oral or intravenous rehydration—and the management of specific symptoms can improve survival chances.
