Experts warn of deadly incurable virus that leaves patients ‘ghost-like’ | CPT PPP Coverage

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The World Health Organisation (WHO) has warned of a deadly virus after two separate outbreaks were reported this year.

Between February and May, there were 25 laboratory-confirmed cases of the Marburg virus, of which 17 patients died.

From the same family as the virus that causes Ebola, disease from the Marburg virus causes a haemorrhagic fever, which can include bleeding from the nose and gums.

Gruesome symptoms of the disease are also noted to leave patients with a “ghost-like” appearance.

The (WHO)says the most recent outbreaks were recorded in Equatorial Guinea between February and May, and the United Republic of Tanzania in March and April.

It states it will continue to monitor the situation.

“Health authorities in both countries have shown strong political commitment,” the (WHO)says.

“In recent weeks they have further strengthened critical response functions, such as disease surveillance, including at points of entry; laboratory activities; clinical case management; infection prevention and control; risk communication and community engagement; and operations support and logistics with support of (WHO)and partners.

“(WHO)continues to monitor the situation in these two countries closely and to support the responses.”

The Marburg virus can affect humans and non-human primates.

They can be infected from prolonged exposure to mines or caves inhabited by Rousettus bat colonies.

It can spread from human to human via direct contact, broken skin or mucous membranes, with the blood, secretions, organs or other bodily fluids of infected people, and with surfaces and materials (such as bedding or clothing) contaminated with these fluids.

Symptoms of Marburg virus disease

The disease will come on “abruptly”.

Initial symptoms include:

• High fever
• Severe headache
• Severe malaise
• Muscle aches and pains
• Diarrhoea
• Abdominal pain and cramping
• Nausea and vomiting.

The (WHO)says: “Illness caused by Marburg virus begins abruptly, with high fever, severe headache and severe malaise.

“Muscle aches and pains are a common feature. Severe watery diarrhoea, abdominal pain and cramping, nausea and vomiting can begin on the third day.

“Diarrhoea can persist for a week. The appearance of patients at this phase has been described as showing ‘ghost-like’ drawn features, deep-set eyes, expressionless faces and extreme lethargy.

“A non-itchy rash has been noted between two and seven days after the onset of symptoms.”

“Most” patients will then experience “severe haemorrhagic manifestations” within seven days.

This can include finding blood in poo and vomit, as well as bleeding from the gums, nose and vagina.

“In fatal cases, death usually occurs between eight and nine days after onset, usually preceded by severe blood loss and shock,” the (WHO)adds.

There is no cure currently for Marburg virus disease but there are treatments available including blood, immune and drug therapies.