What is the ‘bleeding eye’ virus that has killed 15 in Rwanda?

A deadly outbreak of the Marburg virus, also known as the “Bleeding Eye Virus,” is causing chaos in the African nation of Rwanda, claiming the lives of 15 people. With hundreds more believed to be infected, this devastating disease is raising alarm across the region.

The virus poses a terrifying 50/50 risk of death and is thought to be one of the worst illnesses on the planet. With the neighbouring African countries already grappling with outbreaks like Mpox and Oropuche fever, the spread of the Marburg virus poses an even greater threat.

In response, Travel Health Pro, managed by the UK Health Security Agency, has issued a warning advising against travel to 17 countries, including Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Brazil and Uganda, due to the spreading deadly virus.

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What is the viral disease all about? Here’s a closer look.

What is ‘bleeding eye’ virus?

The Marburg virus, often referred to as the ‘bleeding eye’ virus, is a severe illness emerging from the Ebola virus family, according to a report by the World Health Organization (WHO).

This virus causes viral hemorrhagic fever, attacking blood vessels and potentially leading to heavy internal bleeding. In the most extreme cases, it results in blood seeping from the eyes, which gives the virus its eerie name.

The virus takes its name from the German city of Marburg, where it was first identified in 1967 in a lab where workers had been in contact with infected green monkeys imported from Uganda. Subsequently, outbreaks and sporadic cases have been reported in several African countries over the years.

As a zoonotic virus, Marburg is transmitted from animals to humans. It originates from bats and spreads through contact with the damaged skin, blood, urine, or saliva of infected animals. As per WHO, Marburg is highly dangerous, with a mortality rate ranging from 24 to 88 per cent, depending on the specific strain and the availability of medical care.

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Symptoms for ‘bleeding eye’ virus

According to the WHO, the incubation period for the Marburg virus, which is the time between infection and the onset of symptoms, ranges from two to 21 days. Its symptoms are similar to those of the Ebola virus, the health body reports.

Those infected with Marburg may experience high fever, severe headache, muscle pain, vomiting, sore throat, rashes, and diarrhoea. As the infection worsens, the Cleveland Clinic explains that it can lead to sudden weight loss, bleeding from the nose, eyes, mouth, or vagina, and mental confusion.

In severe cases, the virus can cause internal bleeding and organ failure, often resulting in death.

During this critical phase, patients are described as having “ghost-like” drawn features, deep-set eyes, expressionless faces, and extreme lethargy, according to the WHO.

Treatment

At present, there are no vaccines or antiviral treatments available for Marburg viral disease. Supportive care, such as rehydration and managing symptoms, remains the primary approach to controlling the illness.

However, the good news is that experimental therapies and blood products are being evaluated for their effectiveness. Additionally, experimental vaccines are in the initial phase of clinical studies.

Prevention

The Marburg virus spreads through contact with infected individuals, primarily via bodily fluids. So, to reduce the risk of infection, it is important to avoid areas where outbreaks have occurred.

Adopting preventive measures such as practising social distancing, wearing masks, and frequent handwashing are vital.

Additionally, steering clear of direct contact with infected individuals is crucial for minimising transmission. If in contact, use protective equipment (such as a mask, goggles, apron and gloves) and wash hands regularly.

With input from agencies