Ebola-like Virus Sweeps Rwanda, Claims 11 Lives

A devastating outbreak of an Ebola-like virus called Marburg virus has ravaged Rwanda, leaving 11 people dead.

Marburg virus also left 36 people infected, with a quarter of those affected currently in isolation.

The East African nation sounded the alarm on September 27, reporting six fatalities in the initial aftermath.

Despite urgent investigations, the origin of the outbreak remains shrouded in mystery, fuelling fears of widespread contagion.

ATTENTION: Click “HERE” to join our WhatsApp group and receive News updates directly on your WhatsApp!

Health officials have identified over 300 individuals who came into contact with infected persons, with many now quarantined as a precautionary measure.

Rwandans are being cautioned to exercise extreme vigilance, avoiding physical contact to stem the spread of the virus.

READ ALSO: COVID-19 Virus Potentially Developing Resistance to Antiviral Treatments

Notably, the majority of those afflicted are healthcare workers, spanning six districts.

The United States (US) Embassy in Kigali has taken precautionary measures, advising staff to work remotely amid growing concerns for public safety.

Moreso, the cousin of the Ebola virus is believed to have originated in fruit bats and spread through direct contact with infected bodily fluids or contaminated surfaces.

Its symptoms include severe fever, muscle pain, diarrhea, vomiting, and potentially catastrophic blood loss.

According to checks, since its discovery in 1967, the World Health Organization (WHO) has tracked Marburg outbreaks across Africa, including Tanzania, Equatorial Guinea, Angola, Congo, Kenya, South Africa, Uganda, and Ghana.