A dire warning has been issued as the Marburg virus, nicknamed the “bleeding eyes” virus due to its severe symptoms, spreads rapidly across 17 countries. This deadly disease, which carries a 50% fatality rate, has already claimed 15 lives in Rwanda, where hundreds are suspected to be infected.
The Global Spread
Fears are mounting that Marburg, alongside other dangerous diseases like Mpox and Oropouche, could escalate into a global health crisis. Mpox, previously confined to five African nations, has now been detected in Burundi, the Central African Republic, Kenya, Gabon, and Uganda. Alarmingly, five cases have already emerged in the United Kingdom, including one today in Leeds from a traveler returning from Uganda.
Oropouche, meanwhile, has been spreading via midge bites in South America and the Caribbean, infecting over 10,000 people in countries like Brazil, Colombia, and the Dominican Republic.
Marburg Virus Symptoms and Risks
The Marburg virus is particularly notorious for its gruesome symptoms, including fever, severe headaches, and the characteristic bleeding from the eyes, nose, gums, and other body orifices. Victims often experience muscle pain, vomiting blood, and internal bleeding. As the disease progresses, confusion, aggression, and even inflammation of the testicles may occur.
The illness typically begins with high fever, malaise, and muscle aches. By the fifth day, symptoms like bloody diarrhea and extensive bleeding emerge. These complications have resulted in fatalities in several cases, particularly in regions with limited healthcare resources.
Mpox and Oropouche Concerns
Mpox presents with symptoms such as severe rash, blisters, fever, and swollen glands, with rashes often lasting for up to a month. The virus is highly contagious within households, making it crucial to avoid direct skin contact with infected individuals.
Oropouche symptoms generally appear within three to 10 days of infection and include fever, chills, headaches, joint pain, and nausea. Though less fatal than Marburg, it is still a significant health risk in the affected regions.
Travel Warnings and Preventative Measures
Travel Health Pro has issued an advisory for travelers to exercise extreme caution, particularly in areas with active outbreaks. While Marburg cases among travelers are rare, previous infections have occurred in individuals who spent time in bat-inhabited caves or mines.
Currently, there are no vaccines or specific treatments for Marburg or Oropouche. Those traveling to high-risk areas are encouraged to consult healthcare professionals for guidance.
Professor Susan Hopkins of the UK Health Security Agency emphasized vigilance: “Mpox is very infectious in households with close contact. Travelers must take precautions to minimize risk.”
A Global Call to Action
As the virus continues to spread, health agencies worldwide are ramping up monitoring efforts. While the UK Health Security Agency has declared the risk to the general public low, the rapid international spread of these diseases underscores the need for heightened awareness and preparedness.
