Marburg is a highly dangerous disease, with a transmission rate and mortality rate ranging from 50% to 88%.
In Africa, the Ministry of Health of Rwanda has confirmed 7 new cases of Marburg virus infection, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in the country to 56. According to information from the Infectious Disease Surveillance System, the first case of Marburg in Rwanda was reported at the end of September 2024.
As of October 10, a total of 58 cases have been recorded, including 13 fatalities, with approximately 70% of cases being healthcare workers.
The Marburg virus has a complex progression and a high mortality rate. (Graphic: Phuong Anh).
What is the Marburg Virus?
Marburg is a virus transmitted through an intermediate animal, specifically the fruit bat species Rousettus aegyptiacus found in Africa. The virus is named after the Marburg laboratory in Germany, where it was first identified in 1967.
Marburg virus disease is difficult to diagnose, with an incubation period ranging from 2 to 21 days. Patients may exhibit symptoms such as sudden fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, and body pain. By day 5, a rash may appear, accompanied by a burning sensation on the body. Other symptoms can include nausea, chest pain, abdominal pain, sore throat, diarrhea, jaundice, bleeding tendencies, delirium, shock, and can lead to liver failure and multiple organ failure, potentially resulting in death.
To diagnose the Marburg virus, laboratory tests such as Elisa and PCR are required. In deceased patients, blood or tissue samples may be collected for immunohistochemical staining or culture to detect the virus.
Currently, there is no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment available for Marburg virus disease. Patients infected with the Marburg virus must be strictly isolated, and the primary treatment method is supportive care, such as hydration, electrolyte replacement, and hemorrhage control. If there are signs of multiple organ failure, oxygen therapy and resuscitation may be needed. However, due to the high mortality rate, those infected generally have a poor prognosis.
Emergency Directive from the Department of Preventive Health (Ministry of Health)
In response to the evolving Marburg virus outbreak in Africa, the Department of Preventive Health has issued an urgent directive for monitoring and controlling the disease, aiming to prevent an outbreak in our country.
The Department of Preventive Health has sent an urgent document numbered 1006/DP-DT to International Health Quarantine Centers and Provincial and City Disease Control Centers, urging continuous updates on countries reporting Marburg virus cases; closely monitoring individuals entering or transiting through Vietnam from outbreak areas; ensuring full personal protective measures for healthcare workers and the public who may have been in contact with suspected or confirmed cases; and preparing temporary isolation areas for suspected or confirmed cases.
Additionally, the Department of Preventive Health has instructed the Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology/Pasteur to guide and train on surveillance and measures to prevent the disease, sample collection, and safe transportation; to receive samples for the diagnosis of Marburg virus infection; to enhance testing capabilities, actively review, and be ready to respond to any suspected cases.
