Understanding the Rwanda virus: causes, symptoms, and prevention

Rwanda virus belongs to the same clan as the Ebola virus and can lead to unbearable, usually lethal, symptoms.

The term “Rwanda Virus” refers to the Marburg virus, a highly dangerous pathogen responsible for Marburg virus disease (MVD), a severe form of viral hemorrhagic fever.

This virus, belonging to the same family as the Ebola virus, can lead to grave and often fatal health complications.

The Marburg virus is naturally hosted by fruit bats, particularly the species Rousettus aegyptiacus, and can be transmitted to humans through direct contact with bat secretions. Human-to-human transmission occurs via contact with the bodily fluids (blood, vomit, saliva) of infected individuals or surfaces contaminated with these fluids.

Current Situation

As of October 17, 2024, Rwanda has reported a total of 62 cases of Marburg virus disease, resulting in 15 deaths. Fortunately, 43 of the affected individuals have successfully recovered.

Given the high mortality rate of MVD, which can reach up to 88% in severe outbreaks, understanding the virus’s causes, symptoms, and preventive measures is crucial.

Causes of the Marburg Virus

1. Natural Host: The primary source of transmission to humans is through fruit bats, specifically the Rousettus aegyptiacus species.
2. Human-to-Human Transmission: The virus spreads through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected individuals, contaminated surfaces, or materials such as bedding and clothing.

Signs and Symptoms

1. Early Symptoms: The disease typically presents with sudden onset high fever, severe headache, muscle aches, and general malaise.
2. Gastrointestinal Issues: By the third day, patients may experience severe diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.
3. Hemorrhagic Symptoms: Patients may exhibit bleeding from various sites, including the nose, gums, and injection sites, along with blood in vomit and feces.
4. Neurological Symptoms: These can include irritability, confusion, and, in some cases, aggression.
5. Fatality: Without treatment, death usually occurs around 8-9 days after symptom onset, often due to massive blood loss and shock.

Prevention Tips

1. Avoid Contact with Fruit Bats: As the natural hosts of the Marburg virus, it is essential to steer clear of caves or mines inhabited by bats. Those living or working in such areas should avoid handling bats or their droppings.
2. Strict Hygiene in Healthcare: Healthcare workers must utilize appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when caring for infected patients, including gloves, masks, gowns, and eye protection.
3. Avoid Contact with Infected Individuals: Direct physical contact with infected individuals or their bodily fluids should be avoided. Strict quarantine measures are crucial for containing outbreaks.
4. Sterilization and Disinfection: Regular sterilization of medical instruments and proper disposal of contaminated waste (such as syringes and clothing) are vital for preventing the virus’s spread.
5. Safe Burial Practices: Care must be taken when handling and burying bodies of those who died from the Marburg virus to prevent disease transmission.
6. Public Awareness: Education about Marburg virus transmission and prevention in at-risk communities is essential for effective implementation of safety practices.
7. Infection Control in Hospitals: Strict infection control measures, such as patient isolation, can significantly reduce the risk of transmission to healthcare workers and other patients.

Conclusion

With the ongoing outbreak in Rwanda, awareness and understanding of the Marburg virus are more critical than ever. By recognizing the causes, symptoms, and preventive measures, individuals and communities can better protect themselves against this deadly pathogen.