What Is the "Bleeding Eye" Virus Linked to 15 Deaths in Rwanda?

The "Bleeding Eye" virus, linked to 15 deaths in Rwanda, is causing alarm due to its severe symptoms and rapid spread. Health authorities are investigating its origins, transmission, and impact while implementing measures to prevent further cases. This emerging virus highlights the importance of early detection and response to contain potential outbreaks and safeguard public health.

The World Health Organization (WHO) describes Marburg virus disease, previously called Marburg hemorrhagic fever, as a serious and often deadly illness affecting humans.

In Rwanda, the Marburg virus, also referred to as the "bleeding eye" virus, has claimed the lives of at least 15 individuals and infected hundreds more, following its outbreak and spread across 17 African nations over the past two months.

The UK Health Security Agency’s Travel Health Pro issued a warning to travelers about the spread of Marburg virus in Rwanda, Burundi, Central African Republic, Congo, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Gabon, Kenya, Uganda, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Guyana, Panama, and Peru.

In addition to Marburg virus, the advisory cautioned against the dangers of Clade 1 and Oropouche fever, two other infectious diseases spreading in the same regions.

Travelers to these areas are advised to maintain heightened vigilance to reduce their risk of infection.

What Is the "Bleeding Eye" Virus?

According to WHO, Marburg virus disease is a severe illness with a high fatality rate, primarily affecting humans. The natural host of the virus is the fruit bat species Rousettus aegyptiacus, which belongs to the Pteropodidae family.

Symptoms

As per WHO, the incubation period for Marburg virus, or the time between infection and the onset of symptoms, ranges from 2 to 21 days. Early symptoms include high fever, intense headache, and general discomfort. Muscle pain is also commonly reported.

By the third day, symptoms like diarrhea, stomach pain, cramping, nausea, and vomiting typically emerge.

By day five, patients often exhibit hemorrhagic symptoms, such as fresh blood in vomit or stool and bleeding from the eyes, nose, ears, gums, mouth, or vagina. Occasionally, inflammation of one or both testicles (orchitis) is observed in the later stages.

Fatal cases usually result in death 8–9 days after symptoms begin, often due to significant blood loss and shock.

Transmission

The Marburg virus spreads through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected individuals, including blood, secretions, and tissues, as well as through contaminated surfaces and materials such as bedding or clothing.

Healthcare workers frequently contract the virus while caring for patients with confirmed or suspected Marburg infection. Additionally, funeral practices that involve touching the body of a deceased victim can further contribute to the virus's spread.

Treatment

Currently, no vaccines or antiviral therapies are available to treat Marburg virus disease. However, early supportive care, including rehydration and treatment of symptoms, can increase the likelihood of survival.

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Source: NDTV‍