Rwanda is currently battling its very first outbreak of the deadly Marburg virus, a situation that has taken a dire turn since it was first reported in late September.

As of the last update on Thursday, the virus has claimed the lives of 11 individuals, prompting the country’s health minister to announce that clinical trials for experimental vaccines and treatments will soon begin.

But what exactly is the Marburg virus, and should we be worried? Let’s break it down.

What Exactly is the Marburg Virus?

Linked to the same family as the infamous Ebola virus—the Filoviridae family—Marburg is recognized for being even more severe than Ebola in terms of its consequences.

It leads to a potentially fatal disease known as hemorrhagic fever, which can cause substantial damage to blood vessel walls and lead to internal bleeding, a characteristic of other diseases such as dengue and yellow fever.

The virus was first identified in 1967 in Marburg, Germany, and in Belgrade, Serbia, simultaneously.

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that the case fatality rate ranges from a shocking 24% to a staggering 88%.

On average, about half of those who contract the Marburg virus will sadly succumb to it.

Symptoms manifest anywhere between 2 and 21 days after exposure.

These include severe headaches, high fever, muscle aches, fatigue, and loss of appetite, alongside troubling signs of bleeding that might start within five to seven days of the onset of symptoms, leading to a critical situation within just a week.

How is Marburg Virus Spread?

The virus frequently spreads through contact with Rousettus bats, which often carry the virus and are found in caves and mines.

While the outbreak's exact source in Rwanda remains elusive, it spreads easily once contracted, through direct contact with bodily fluids.

Even contaminated surfaces pose a risk, as the virus does not rely on airborne transmission.

Current Situation in Rwanda

As of now, Rwanda has reported 36 confirmed cases of Marburg, with 25 individuals receiving care in isolation.

Notably, healthcare workers have been disproportionately affected—accounting for 70% of cases reported as of September 30—sparkling grave concern over infection control in healthcare facilities especially in regions that lack adequate resources.

Rwanda is taking precautions by monitoring around 300 individuals who have come into contact with confirmed cases in an effort to contain further spread.

Global Concerns Over the Marburg Virus

Though the situation is alarming in Rwanda, there were earlier fears of the virus spreading to Germany when two train passengers seeking medical help tested for symptoms.

Thankfully, both tested negative for the virus, but the global community remains on high alert.

Marburg outbreaks are not new.

Recent years have seen outbreaks in West Africa, Ghana, and even Tanzania and Equatorial Guinea in 2023, highlighting how rapidly the virus can emerge and spread.

The WHO currently assesses the risk of the Marburg outbreak at "very high at the national level, high at the regional level, and low at the global level."

No Approved Vaccines or Treatments Yet

As alarming as the situation is, there are no approved vaccines or treatments for the Marburg virus, yet this is rapidly changing.

Rwanda’s Minister of Health announced an urgent push for vaccine development, with collaborations ongoing among international entities, including the University of Oxford, which is trialing its own Marburg vaccine candidate.

What Can You Do to Prevent Infection?

Experts advise implementing strict hygiene practices and cautious interaction with individuals displaying symptoms.

Wearing masks, avoiding sharing food, and monitoring symptoms diligently are crucial preventative measures.

Why Are Marburg Outbreaks Happening More Often?

From just 13 recorded outbreaks in 50 years, we've seen five outbreaks since 2021, signaling a troubling trend.

As human contact with wildlife increases, and as chronic health conditions among humans rise, the potential for spread grows.

Simply put, as people with weakened immune systems live longer due to healthcare advances, they also become more susceptible to emerging infections.

The Marburg virus is a serious global health concern.

The time for action is now.

Without proper surveillance and investment in healthcare, we risk losing more human lives.

Together, we must raise awareness and demand action to prevent this deadly virus from spiraling out of control.

Stay alert, stay safe, and make sure to keep informed about the developments concerning this deadly virus.

The world is watching closely!