15 People Die Of Marburg Virus Disease, 63 Others Infected In Rwanda
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Rwanda reported 15 deaths due to the Marburg virus disease, said the Rwandan Health Minister Sabin Nsanzimana. The country has also witnessed 63 infections since the outbreak began. One month after confirming the Marburg outbreak, Nsanzimana reported positive progress, saying “We have had 10 cumulative days with no new deaths and only one new case during the same period.”
The new case was reported on Wednesday which involves a health worker who has been caring for infected patients at a treatment centre since the outbreak was announced in late September.
During the virtual media briefing, he said, “While one case in the last 10 days is a good trend, we must remember that it is not yet over.” Xinhua news agency reported that Nsanzimana said that more than 1,280 people have been vaccinated, including those at high risk of contracting the virus.
The number of contact persons for Marburg patients has decreased, down from more than 1,000 to about 500, he said, adding that the ministry will continue testing everyone presenting symptoms of the virus, with over 5,000 people tested so far.
Marburg virus disease (MVD) is an illness that has a fatality ratio of up to 88% but can be much lower with good patient care. The symptoms start flu-like but can progress to severe vomiting, bleeding and neurological (brain and nerve) issues. Outbreaks usually start by spreading from bats or primates (like monkeys) to humans. From there, it can spread from human to human and cause outbreaks.
Symptoms of Marburg Virus Disease
The symptoms usually happen in two phases. Here, take a look at the symptoms of the first phase that might last for five to seven days.
- Fever
- Chills
- Severe headache
- Cough
- Muscle or joint pain
- Sore throat
- Rash.
Here, take a look at the symptoms of the second phase.
- Abdominal or chest pain
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Dizziness
- Unintended weight loss
- Bloody poop or vomit
- Bleeding from your nose, mouth, eyes or vagina
- Confusion.
Preventive Measures For Marburg Virus Disease
Here, take a look at tips to prevent the spread of the deadly virus.
Avoid contact with infected people
Stay away from those suspected or confirmed to have Marburg virus. The virus spreads through direct contact with bodily fluids like blood, saliva or vomit.
Hand hygiene
Wash hands frequently with soap and water or use alcohol-based sanitizers, especially after visiting healthcare spaces or being around potentially infected people.
Protective gear
Wear gloves, masks and gowns if you’re caring for someone with suspected Marburg virus to prevent fluid transmission.
Avoid contact with bats and primates
Marburg virus can originate from fruit bats and non-human primates, so avoid caves and areas where these animals are common.
Handle infected bodies safely
If handling the deceased, use protective equipment and follow strict protocols to prevent contact with bodily fluids, as the virus remains contagious after death.
(With inputs from IANS)
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