Rwanda Faces Marburg Virus Outbreak Amid Healthcare Strain

Why in the news?

  • Rwanda is grappling with a Marburg virus outbreak, reporting 46 infections and 12 deaths, primarily among healthcare workers.
  • The situation strains the nation’s healthcare system, which has limited resources, prompting the search for experimental vaccines and treatments to combat the deadly virus.

About Marburg Virus Outbreak in Rwanda:

  • Current Situation:
  • Rwanda reported its first Marburg virus case late last month.
  • At least 46 confirmed infections and 12 deaths have been reported.
  • Approximately 80% of cases involve healthcare workers.
  • The outbreak poses a significant risk to Rwanda’s healthcare system, which has only 1,500 doctors for over 13 million residents.

Rwanda Faces Marburg Virus Outbreak Amid Healthcare Strain

Understanding Marburg Virus:

  • Deadly Pathogen:
  • Marburg virus is one of the deadliest known pathogens, with case fatality rates between 24% and 88%.
  • The first outbreak occurred in Marburg, Germany, in 1967; subsequent outbreaks mainly in
  • It belongs to the filovirus family, similar to Ebola, and can cause high-fatality outbreaks.

Transmission and Prevention:

  • Spread of Marburg Virus Disease (MVD):
    • Originally transmitted through exposure to caves inhabited by Rousettus bats.
    • Human-to-human transmission occurs via direct contact with infected bodily fluids and contaminated surfaces.
  • Symptoms and Treatment:
    • Symptoms appear 2 to 21 days post-infection, including high fever, headaches, muscle aches, and severe gastrointestinal issues.
    • Currently, there are no approved vaccines or specific treatments; however, supportive care and experimental vaccines are being explored. Rwanda received 700 doses of an experimental vaccine from the Sabin Vaccine Institute for healthcare workers.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times