Deadly outbreak of Marburg, or ‘bleeding eye virus,’ leads to travel advisory

The outbreak of the Marburg virus, also known as the “bleeding eye virus,” in Rwanda has raised concerns about the potential spread of the deadly disease beyond the country’s borders. Health officials are closely monitoring the situation as the U.S. State Department issued a travel advisory urging travelers to exercise caution when visiting Rwanda.

Marburg virus is a rare but severe viral hemorrhagic fever with a fatality rate ranging from 20% to 90%. Similar to Ebola, the virus can cause symptoms such as fever, body aches, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and vomiting. In severe cases, patients may experience extreme weight loss, jaundice, pancreatitis, delirium, shock, liver failure, massive hemorrhaging, and multi-organ dysfunction. The virus can also cause bleeding from the eyes, nose, mouth, or gastrointestinal tract, leading to its ominous nickname.

The primary reservoir for the Marburg virus is the Egyptian rousette bat, and the virus is transmitted through bodily fluids and contact with contaminated surfaces. While there are no specific drugs or vaccines for Marburg, medical providers can manage symptoms with supportive care such as oxygen, pain medications, and IV fluids for rehydration. Experimental vaccines are currently in development to combat the virus.

Preventative measures to avoid contracting the virus include avoiding contact with the blood and bodily fluids of infected individuals, refraining from touching items that may have come in contact with these fluids, and avoiding contact with bats and non-human primates in areas where Marburg cases have been reported.

The CDC outlines specific criteria for declaring an end to a Marburg outbreak, including a 42-day period without any new infections after the last recovered patient tests negative for the virus twice, 48 hours apart. If no new cases are reported by December 22, 2024, the outbreak in Rwanda will be declared over.

While there is a risk of intercontinental spread, experts believe that the virus is not contagious enough to cause a widespread outbreak. Continued vigilance, adherence to preventative measures, and ongoing research into treatments and vaccines are crucial in managing and containing the Marburg virus outbreak in Rwanda. Stay informed on the latest developments and health recommendations by visiting www.foxnews.com/health.