Marburg virus (MARV) continues to be a serious public health threat in the Eastern Africa region. It belongs to the same family as the Ebola virus (Filoviridae) and can cause severe hemorrhagic fever with high mortality rates. The outbreaks have been sporadic, but due to its mode of transmission and high fatality rate, it is regarded as a significant risk to the region.
There have been several outbreaks in countries like Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania and now Rwanda, particularly because the region is home to fruit bats (Rousettus aegyptiacus), the virus’s natural reservoir. Transmission to humans typically occurs when they come into contact with bat feces, urine, or blood, and the virus can then spread from person to person through contact with bodily fluids.
The ongoing Marburg virus (MARV) outbreak in Rwanda
Recent outbreaks have raised concerns due to:
- Cross-border transmission: Eastern Africa’s interconnectedness and frequent cross-border movements mean that outbreaks in one country can quickly become a regional issue.
- Healthcare infrastructure challenges: In some parts of Eastern Africa, the healthcare systems are underdeveloped, making it harder to contain outbreaks quickly.
- Lack of vaccines and treatments: Despite ongoing research, there is no licensed vaccine or antiviral treatment specifically for Marburg virus, so containment relies on public health interventions like quarantine, isolation of patients, and contact tracing.
Public health measures such as raising awareness, improving surveillance, and strengthening healthcare systems remain crucial in controlling the spread of the virus in this region.