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A deadly outbreak of Marburg Virus is being reported in Tanzania's Kagera region and the World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a grave warning regarding the same. Often compared to Ebola, this highly contagious haemorrhagic fever has already claimed eight lives, with nine confirmed cases reported. It is being speculated that the virus has a potential of spreading and wreaking havoc, based on the intensified disease surveillance.
Marburg Virus: A Lethal Threat
The Marburg virus, flagged as a “priority pathogen” by the WHO, is known for its severe and often fatal outcomes. Originating from fruit bats, it spreads among humans through direct contact with bodily fluids of infected individuals or contaminated surfaces, such as bedding. Currently, there is no established cure for the disease, although experimental vaccines and drugs are under development.
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Symptoms To Look Out For
The Marburg virus progresses through two distinct phases:
Early Phase Symptoms
- High fever and chills
- Sore throat
- Severe headaches and muscle pain
- Rashes and cough
Advanced Phase Symptoms
- Diarrhoea and vomiting with blood
- Intense pain in abdomen and chest
- Severe weight loss and dizziness
- Confusion and other neurological symptoms
- Bleeding from eyes, nose and mouth
The rapid progression of these symptoms underscores the importance of early detection and containment.
Current Updates Of The Outbreak
The Kagera region outbreak comes months after Rwanda declared its Marburg outbreak over in December 2023, which resulted in 66 cases and 15 deaths. Tanzania, sharing a border with Rwanda, has a history of battling this virus, with five fatalities reported in 2023.
WHO Chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has emphasized the need for heightened vigilance. While the WHO assesses the current outbreak's risk as high at the national and regional levels, the global threat remains low. However, the possibility of international spread cannot be ignored, especially with increased mobility and limited healthcare resources in affected regions.
How To Prevent Infection
- Steer clear of fruit bats, nonhuman primates, and environments they inhabit. Avoid consuming bush meat.
- Use protective equipment when tending to infected individuals. Avoid direct contact with bodily fluids, and ensure thorough hand hygiene after interactions, even with gloves.
- Refrain from handling the bodies of deceased patients unless using appropriate protective gear.
- If exposed to the virus, isolate yourself immediately and seek medical attention.
Global Concerns and Call to Action
The Marburg virus outbreak in Tanzania underscores the critical need for robust healthcare systems, effective surveillance, and public awareness. The WHO and health authorities must collaborate to prevent further spread, especially to neighboring countries and beyond.
The world cannot afford complacency when facing pathogens with pandemic potential. The Marburg virus serves as a stark reminder of the ever-present threat posed by zoonotic diseases and the importance of global preparedness.