All about the bleeding eye virus killing many in Africa
The World Health Organisation (WHO) describes it as a severe disease with a fatality ratio of up to 88%. The Marburg virus known for causing severe bleeding and organ failure is caused by a bat-borne virus that can spread through contact with infected blood or bodily fluids.
While bleeding from the eyes is rare, it highlights the virus’s severity.
The Marburg virus belongs to the same family as Ebola and has been declared an epidemic by WHO since 2023.
Initially detected in 1967 after two simultaneous outbreaks in Marburg and Frankfurt in Germany and Belgrade, Serbia, the outbreak was associated with laboratory work using African green monkeys from Uganda.
Today, many outbreaks and sporadic cases have been reported in many parts of Africa including Angola, Equatorial Guinea, South Africa and Tanzania.
Equatorial Guinea recorded its first outbreak in February 2023 with 12 deaths and 200 people quarantine.
In the most recent record of cases, fifteen people have died and hundreds have been affected following the bleeding eye virus outbreak in Rwanda and East Africa.
Symptoms
Symptoms of the virus include fever, headache, muscle pain, nausea, and in some cases, bleeding. The illness can worsen, causing jaundice, liver failure, and shock. The WHO warns death often occurs within 8 to 9 days after symptoms appear in severe cases.
Treatment and prevention?
There is no specific treatment for the Marburg virus. Supportive care such as fluids, oxygen therapy, and medications to control symptoms can help.
Who on containing the virus
WHO and the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have advised early detection and strict isolation to prevent further spread. “Timely medical care and preventive measures can save lives,” says WHO.
