Zim Now Writer
Rwanda has confirmed its first cases of Marburg virus disease, a deadly viral hemorrhagic fever, according to a statement from the country's health ministry on Friday.
The ministry is currently investigating the source of the infection, and the individuals who tested positive have been isolated for treatment. Although the ministry did not specify the exact number of cases, it noted that there are only a few.
The Ministry of Health in a statement issued Friday said enhanced preventive measures will be implemented for the viral disease which produces a highly virulent hemorrhagic fever, with a fatality ratio of up to 88 percent. It is in the same family as the virus that causes Ebola.
“Marburg virus disease, a haemorrhagic fever, has been confirmed in a few patients in health facilities in the country. Investigations are being carried out to determine the origin of the infection.
Enhanced preventive measures are being implemented in all health facilities. Contact tracing is underway, and cases have been isolated for treatment. Such infections are transmitted through contact with blood and body fluids of people who are visibly sick. The virus is not believed to be transmitted by air,” the ministry said.
MoH further said that anyone experiencing symptoms such as a high fever, strong headaches, vomiting, muscle aches, and stomach aches should call Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC) on 114, or visit the nearest health facilities..
Marburg, which has a fatality rate of up to 88%, belongs to the same family of viruses as Ebola.
The virus is transmitted to humans through fruit bats and can spread via direct contact with bodily fluids of infected individuals.
Symptoms of Marburg include high fever, severe headache, vomiting, muscle pain, and abdominal discomfort, according to the ministry.
Rwanda's neighboring countries have also encountered Marburg in the past. Tanzania experienced cases in 2023, and Uganda reported similar outbreaks in 2017.
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