Marburg disease, a rare but severe hemorrhagic fever, has made headlines in recent years due to its alarming outbreaks in various parts of Africa. Although it shares similarities with the Ebola virus, Marburg is less well-known, but equally dangerous. As Rwanda prepares itself to address potential outbreaks, here’s everything you need to know about the disease, how it spreads, and what is being done to control it.
Marburg disease is caused by the Marburg virus, a member of the Filoviridae family (the same virus family as Ebola). It was first identified in 1967 when outbreaks occurred simultaneously in Marburg and Frankfurt in Germany, and in Belgrade, Serbia. These outbreaks were linked to laboratory work using monkeys imported from Uganda, marking the first known human cases of the disease.
The Marburg virus is zoonotic, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans. Fruit bats, specifically the Rousettus aegyptiacus species, are considered the natural hosts of the virus. However, transmission to humans often happens when individuals come into contact with the blood, secretions, or other bodily fluids of infected animals, particularly bats or non-human primates. Once infected, the virus can spread between humans through direct contact with bodily fluids or contaminated surfaces, much like Ebola.
The symptoms of Marburg disease can be dramatic, making early identification critical for treatment and containment. Initially, it may seem like the flu, with sudden onset of fever, headache, muscle pain, and malaise. However, after a few days, symptoms escalate to severe watery diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Eventually, patients may experience severe hemorrhaging (both internal and external), organ failure, and shock, leading to death in many cases. The incubation period is typically between 2 to 21 days.
One of the reasons Marburg is considered particularly deadly is due to its high fatality rate, which can range from 24% to as much as 88%, depending on the outbreak and the quality of medical care available.
Up to 9 out of 10 people infected with the virus will die without treatment. Chances of survival improve when treatment is given early at a treatment center.
In the 2005 outbreak in Angola, for example, over 90% of those infected died. Quick medical intervention can improve survival rates, but the lack of specific treatments or vaccines makes Marburg a formidable threat.
As of September 29th 2024, 26 people have been infected by the disease in Rwanda and 10 have been pronounced dead and 18 are still being given treatment.
Health minister Dr Nsanzimana Sabin at briefing for media and CSOs, says correct information is critical for prevention. The Marburg virus, unlike Covid, is not known to be airborne but is primarily transmitted via body fluids from a symptomatic person. Avoiding close contact and maintaining proper hygiene is important.
While Marburg disease sounds terrifying, the chances of catching it remain low unless you are in direct contact with infected individuals or animals. Rwanda’s health systems have shown resilience in handling outbreaks of other infectious diseases, and their proactive measures should not go unnoticed.
The key to preventing Marburg’s spread is early detection and containment. Rwanda is working closely with international health organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Africa Centers for Disease Control (Africa CDC) to monitor the situation and implement protocols to protect its citizens.
For the average person in Rwanda, the risk of contracting Marburg is extremely low. However, it is always wise to practice good hygiene. If you experience flu-like symptoms after visiting high-risk areas or come into contact with someone suspected of having Marburg, seek medical attention immediately.
Health experts also recommend being aware of how infectious diseases spread in our interconnected world. Simple steps, like washing hands frequently, using hand sanitizers, and being mindful of where your food comes from, can go a long way in preventing the transmission of zoonotic diseases.
