Marburg Virus Outbreak In Ethiopia: 6 Dead As Health Officials Highlight Key Warning Signs And Preventive Tips
Ethiopia reports six deaths from the Marburg virus as health teams urge early action. Know key warning signs and simple preventive steps to stay safe.
The death toll from an Ethiopian Marburg virus epidemic has grown to six, the state-run news agency said on Wednesday. Ethiopia first confirmed the outbreak on November 14, and three deaths were recorded three days later. "Out of the 11 people in whom the virus was detected, six have died, and five are receiving medical treatment," Ethiopian Press Agency said on its Facebook page, citing a statement from the health ministry.
According to the ministry, 349 people suspected of having contact with sick individuals were segregated, with 119 of them freed once their surveillance was completed. Marburg, a virus in the same family as Ebola, causes severe headaches and haemorrhaging. Previous outbreaks in Africa have resulted in fatality rates of 80% or more, usually within eight to nine days of the commencement of symptoms.
Marburg Virus Outbreaks in Other Regions
In the past, the Marburg virus outbreaks in Tanzania killed ten people in January and were declared over in March. Rwanda successfully contained its first known Marburg outbreak in December 2024, which resulted in 15 deaths. Last year, Rwanda tested an experimental vaccination created by the US-based Sabin Vaccine Institute.
What is the Marburg Virus?
Marburg virus is in the same family as Ebola and might make people seriously sick. It is transmitted by direct contact with the blood, body fluids or tissues of the infected individuals or animals such as bats, monkeys. The virus may also be transferred within the healthcare environment, provided that proper precautions are not taken.
Warning Signs of Marburg Virus
The early symptoms are important to save lives. The five red flags to be observed are:
Sudden Fever and Chills
A sudden high fever, which is usually accompanied by chills, is one of the initial symptoms of infection. This may manifest between 2 in 21 days of exposure to the virus.
Severe Headache and Pain in the Muscles
The infected individuals are likely to develop headaches, pains in the joints and aches in the muscles and may find it hard to perform daily tasks.
Weakness and Fatigue
Patients are highly fatigued and weak as the virus advances. This can build up very fast and this may disrupt normal functioning.
Nausea, Vomiting and Diarrhoea
Nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea are common symptoms of digestion. These symptoms may cause a dehydration state, which aggravates the situation of the patient.
Unexplained Bleeding
Hemorrhagic fever is also characterised by bleeding of the gums, nose, urine, and stool. The symptom is bruising under the skin without any injury and should seek urgent medical attention.
Marburg Virus Treatment
According to the WHO, as of now, there is no vaccine or anti-viral for treating the Marburg Virus. However, early intensive supportive care that includes hydration and treatment of specific symptoms can help improve survival.
Tips to Prevent Marburg Virus
The best way to prevent the Marburg virus is by following these precautionary measures:
- Ensure to avoid coming in close contact with the blood and body fluids of people who are with the disease.
- Healthcare professionals also recommend staying away from intimacy with someone who has been recently diagnosed with Marburg.
- Avoid touching contaminated surfaces that may have come in contact with an infected person's body fluids.
Consult a doctor immediately if you detect any of the symptoms of Marburg Virus. Stay alert, stay healthy.
