Rwanda on Friday confirmed a few cases (without specifying number) of the deadly Marburg viral disease in some health facilities across the country.
According to a Ministry of Health communique seen by Taarifa, “Investigations are being carried out to determine the origin of the infection.”
The Ministry also said that contact tracing is underway, and cases have been isolated for treatment.
The communique added that the situation is being closely monitored and the Ministry will provide further updates on a regular basis. “The public should continue with their usual activities while maintaining a high level of vigilance and hygiene.
About Marburg virus disease
Marburg virus disease, formerly Marburg hemorrhagic fever is a viral hemorrhagic fever in human and non-human primates caused by either of the two Marburgviruses: Marburg virus and Ravn virus. Its clinical symptoms
According to the New England Journal of Medicine, early manifestations of Marburg virus disease in patients begins with a nonspecific (prerash) prodromal phase, characterized by low-grade fever, malaise, and body aches.
It is followed by a maculopapular rash that appeares on the upper body at approximately day 3 or 4 and, in certain patients, that extends to the lower body.
As the disease progresses, gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and anorexia, along with mild upper respiratory symptoms, emerge.
These symptoms progress to severe manifestations characterized by encephalopathy, shock, and bleeding in the patients who die.
