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Rwanda confirms six deaths, 20 cases in Marburg virus outbreak

Rwanda confirms six deaths 20 cases in Marburg virus outbreak
This negative stained transmission electron micrograph (TEM) depicts a number of filamentous Marburg virions.

Rwanda has reported six fatalities and 20 confirmed cases of Marburg disease since the outbreak began, according to Health Minister Sabin Nsanzimana in a video statement on X. Nsanzimana noted that the majority of victims are healthcare workers in intensive care units.

“We have identified 20 infected individuals, and six have sadly died from the virus, with most cases and deaths among ICU healthcare workers,” he stated.

Marburg, a viral hemorrhagic fever, can lead to death, presenting symptoms such as severe headaches, vomiting, muscle, and stomach aches. Efforts are underway to trace contacts of infected individuals.

With a fatality rate reaching 88%, Marburg, related to Ebola, spreads from fruit bats and through bodily fluids.

Tanzania reported Marburg cases in 2023, while Uganda experienced similar outbreaks in 2017.

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