Marburg ‘bleeding eyes’ virus kills 15 people as urgent warning issued to travellers

Marburg Virus Outbreak: Urgent Warning for Travellers

A recent outbreak of the deadly Marburg virus has led to 15 deaths, prompting urgent warnings to travellers, particularly those heading to Africa. The Marburg virus, also known as the ‘bleeding eyes’ virus due to one of its symptoms, has affected several countries, with hundreds of people believed to be infected in Rwanda alone.

Alongside Marburg, other conditions like Mpox and Oropouche are also on the rise. British travellers to Africa are advised to take extra precautions as the Marburg virus has a mortality rate of 50-50 and could potentially spread to other African nations that are already grappling with virus outbreaks.

Reports indicate that Mpox clade 1 has been detected in various African countries, including Burundi, Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, Uganda, and Kenya. Concerningly, there have been five confirmed cases of Mpox in the UK this year, with the latest cases being found in Leeds and London among individuals who had returned from Africa recently.

Although the UK Health Security Agency reassures that the risk to the UK remains low, Travel Health Pro has issued a caution for travellers to and from affected areas to exercise vigilance. With no pre-travel vaccine available for Mpox in the UK, individuals are urged to consult health professionals before embarking on trips abroad, especially pregnant individuals and those with weakened immune systems.

Preventative measures recommended include avoiding contact with sick individuals, maintaining good hand hygiene, refraining from touching one’s face, and being cautious of close sexual contact as well as insect bites which can spread diseases like Oropouche. Various South American countries and a Caribbean state have reported cases of the Oropouche virus, affecting thousands of individuals this year.

As the world grapples with these virus outbreaks, experts stress the importance of early detection and prompt medical intervention. Symptoms of Marburg virus can range from severe headaches and muscle aches to abdominal pain, vomiting, and bleeding from various parts of the body. Individuals are reminded to seek medical attention if they experience any of these symptoms, especially following travel to affected regions.

In the face of these health risks, travellers are urged to stay informed, follow health guidelines, and prioritise their well-being when planning trips to regions where these viruses are prevalent. Vigilance and proactive health measures play a critical role in preventing the spread of infectious diseases and safeguarding public health.