Although Covid and its effects have all but disappeared, its memory still abounds with the world. Now a new virus, Marburg, is showing up in Rwanda. It has the potential to be an international crisis. What does that mean for the U.S.?
At a Glance
- Marburg virus has resulted in 11 deaths and 25 infections in Rwanda.
- The WHO considers the outbreak risk very high nationally, high regionally, and low globally.
- No authorized vaccine or treatment for Marburg exists currently.
- Rwanda plans to start clinical trials for a vaccine shortly.
- Health measures include isolation, contact tracing, and restrictions on gatherings.
The Outbreak and Its Extent
The Marburg virus outbreak was declared in Rwanda on September 27. Thus far it has affected 11 people resulting in their deaths. Still more are currently in isolation [Health authorities are racing to find an answer for the 25 more currency in isolation. Marburg is comparable to Ebola and has a high percentage of fatality at 88%.
The Egyptian rousette bat is identified as a reservoir for this virus, which spreads through exposure to infected bats or contact with the bodily fluids of those displaying symptoms. Rwanda has implemented robust measures such as contact tracing and the isolation of 36 confirmed cases to prevent further transmission.
Rwanda recently confirmed its first-ever Marburg virus disease outbreak.
Learn more about this highly virulent disease that causes haemorrhagic fever in @WHO's free #OpenWHO online course ➡️: https://t.co/Zdmj1qYtqP pic.twitter.com/UT4J2HedT6
— WHO African Region (@WHOAFRO) October 2, 2024
International and National Responses
The WHO has classified the outbreak’s risk level as very high within Rwanda, high in the surrounding regions, and low on a global scale. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the WHO Director-General, acknowledged the dire national threat while ensuring global monitoring.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated: “WHO assesses the risk of this outbreak as very high at the national level, high at the regional level and low at the global level.”
Domestically, authorities have urged preventive measures like avoiding physical contact and have suspended gatherings including school and hospital visitations in affected areas. Despite the challenges there is still no approved vaccine or treatment for Marburg virus. Rwanda is planning clinical trials as a vital step toward finding a solution.
Rwanda has reported its first-ever outbreak of Marburg virus disease, with 26 confirmed cases and six deaths.
The virus has spread to seven districts, and 20 cases are in isolation receiving treatment. Authorities have identified 161 contacts under monitoring and are…
— Dr. Syra Madad (@syramadad) September 29, 2024
Global Health Challenges
As zoonotic diseases like Marburg continue to emerge, they underscore the pressing need for advanced research and development for vaccines and treatments. This is a global health challenge that demands innovative, long-term strategies. The cooperation between national health authorities and international bodies demonstrates the world’s capacity to address such crises effectively and the importance of preparedness in tackling what could be yet more frequent outbreaks.
“The Marburg Virus, which can have an 88 percent fatality rate, has now killed 11 people in Rwanda as the East African country continues to investigate the source of the outbreak.”
The outbreak underscores the delicate balance between humans and their environment. As was seen with Covid, the U.S. and the world as a whole must be vigilant in the way we deal with possible nee viral attacks.
Sources:
1. The Outbreak and its Extent
