The Ministry of Health on Friday, September 27, announced that Marburg virus disease (MVD), a haemorrhagic fever, has been confirmed in a few patients in health facilities in the country.

A related statement noted that investigations were being carried out to determine the origin of the infection.

The statement read: "Enhanced preventive measures are being implemented in all health facilities. Contact tracing is underway, and cases have been isolated for treatment. Such infections are transmitted through contact with blood and body fluids of people who are visibly sick. The virus is not believed to be transmitted by air.

"Anyone experiencing symptoms such as a high fever, strong headaches, vomiting, muscle aches, and stomach aches should call Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC) on 114, or visit the nearest health facility. The Ministry of Health is closely monitoring the situation and 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.”

What is Marburg virus disease?

According to the World Health Organisation, marburg virus disease (MVD) is a severe, often fatal illness caused by the Marburg virus. The virus causes severe viral haemorrhagic fever in humans characterized by fever, headache, back pain, muscle pain, abdominal pain, vomiting, confusion, diarrhoea, and bleeding at very late stages.

MVD was first identified in Marburg, Germany in 1967. Since then, there have been a limited number of outbreaks reported in Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, South Africa and Uganda.

In 2023, two separate MVD outbreaks have been reported in two countries, Equatorial Guinea and the United Republic of Tanzania.

While rare, MVD remains a severe public health threat due to its high mortality rate and the lack of an effective antiviral treatment or vaccine.

Early symptoms

The WHO notes that early symptoms of MVD can arise quickly after infection and may include high fever, chills, severe headache and severe tiredness. Muscle aches and pains are also common early symptoms.

Symptoms become increasingly severe and can include nausea, vomiting, stomach and or chest pain, rash and diarrhoea which can last around a week.

Late symptoms

In later stages of the disease, according to WHO, bleeding from various sites such as the gums, nose and anus can occur. Patients can suffer shock, delirium and organ failure.

The most reported MVD symptoms include: