The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has announced that health monitoring will be implemented for travelers returning from Rwanda starting this week.
Additionally, the Health Ministry released guidelines for these travelers on Sunday morning. This decision comes in response to the outbreak of the Marburg virus in Rwanda, where 11 individuals have tragically lost their lives and another 25 have been confirmed as infected since the outbreak was declared on September 27.
The Marburg virus, akin to Ebola, poses a significant threat, with mortality rates reaching as high as 88% depending on the virus strain and treatment protocols.
In light of these concerns, German authorities have been on high alert. On October 2, two train passengers exhibiting symptoms were suspected of carrying the virus, prompting the closure of two tracks at Hamburg’s central station. Fortunately, both individuals tested negative for the virus.
As of October 2, Rwanda has reported a total of 36 confirmed cases, among which at least 19 are healthcare professionals, predominantly from intensive care units.
There are several cases with unknown sources, suggesting that there may be more unreported or unidentified cases, as noted in a health alert released by the CDC on October 3.
What exactly is the Marburg virus?
Marburg virus disease, commonly referred to as Marburg Hemorrhagic Fever, is primarily prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa. This illness was first recognized in 1967 during outbreaks that occurred in Germany and Serbia, and it is linked to the Marburg and Ravn viruses.
These viruses are naturally hosted by fruit bats that inhabit caves across Africa and the Middle East, and they can transmit the disease to both humans and animals through their bodily secretions. Animals may ingest the virus by consuming fruit contaminated by bat saliva or through bites from infected bats. Humans can become infected by coming into contact with sick animals or through exposure to contaminated needles, objects, or surfaces.
Transmission of the Marburg virus occurs via direct contact with the bodily fluids of an infected person—these fluids include blood, urine, saliva, sweat, feces, vomit, breast milk, amniotic fluid, or semen—especially when these come into contact with broken skin or mucous membranes in the eyes, nose, or mouth.
It is important to note that Marburg is not spread through the air. The onset of symptoms, which may include fever, skin rash, and significant bleeding, is often abrupt and can escalate rapidly. Currently, there is no specific treatment for Marburg virus disease, and infections frequently result in severe health complications or death.
