Marburg virus confirmed in Rwanda

A total of 20 cases of Marburg virus have been confirmed in Rwanda, with 6 fatalities reported. The majority of deaths were healthcare professionals deployed within the critical care facility. The Marburg virus has a high mortality rate and is transmitted to humans via fruit bats, subsequently via contact with the body fluids of infected individuals. The symptoms include fever, diarrhea, muscle pain, and, in some cases, hemorrhages that can be fatal. Health authorities are closely monitoring individuals who have been in close contact with those infected. These individuals have been urged to avoid further contact with infected individuals and to adhere to proper hygiene protocols, including washing their hands with soap and clean water or using other effective cleansing agents. No specific treatments or vaccines have been developed to combat the virus. As indicated by the World Health Organization, a range of blood products, pharmacological therapies, and immunotherapeutic agents are currently being developed.