A global health alert has been raised due to the rapid spread of Marburg, Mpox, and Oropouche viruses, which are now affecting at least 17 countries. The World Health Organization has issued a call for increased vigilance, especially among travelers, as a new virus, dubbed the ‘Bleeding Eye’ virus, spreads across regions, raising concerns about its potentially devastating impact.
Marburg Virus – The ‘Bleeding Eye’ Disease
The Marburg virus, also known as the ‘Bleeding Eye’ virus due to one of its alarming symptoms, has caused the deaths of at least 15 individuals in Rwanda, with hundreds more infected. With a fatality rate of up to 50%, Marburg is considered one of the deadliest viruses in the world. This virus is feared to spread further throughout other African nations already grappling with outbreaks of other diseases.
Mpox (Monkeypox) Cases Surge in Multiple Countries
In addition to Marburg, cases of Mpox (formerly known as Monkeypox) have been detected across several countries in Africa, including Burundi, the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, Uganda, and Kenya. This year, the UK has reported five confirmed Mpox cases, which have been linked to travelers returning from Africa. The latest case was confirmed in Leeds, with an individual who recently returned from Uganda.
Health experts note that Mpox is highly contagious, particularly in household settings where close contact occurs. Although the overall risk to the UK population remains low, travelers are urged to exercise caution. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has advised those planning to travel to high-risk areas to consult healthcare providers and ensure they have appropriate travel health insurance. Pregnant individuals and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk for severe infections.
Precautions Against Mpox
Travelers should take the following precautions to reduce the risk of contracting Mpox:
1. Avoid contact with individuals who are sick or have a rash
2. Wash hands frequently and use hand sanitizer
3. Keep hands away from the face
4. Practice safe hygiene and avoid close contact, especially in households
Oropouche Virus – A New Threat in South America and the Caribbean
Meanwhile, the Oropouche virus is spreading through midge bites in several South American nations and the Caribbean. Over 10,000 cases have been reported this year in countries such as Brazil, Bolivia, Colombia, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Guyana, Panama, and Peru. Though rare, Oropouche has also caused a small number of fatalities. The virus, which currently has no specific treatments or vaccines, leads to symptoms like fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, joint pain, and a rash, which typically last around a week.
Symptoms of Marburg, Mpox, and Oropouche Viruses
Marburg Virus:
1. Sudden onset of fever, headache, and fatigue
2. Severe body aches and abdominal pain
3. Watery diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting by day three
4. Bleeding from the nose, gums, eyes, and other parts of the body by day five
5. Internal bleeding and shock may lead to death within a week of symptoms onset
Mpox Symptoms:
1. A characteristic rash resembling blisters or sores, often on the face, palms, and genital areas
2. Backache, muscle aches, and swollen glands
3. Fever, chills, headache, fatigue, and joint pain
4. Symptoms can take up to 21 days to appear and may last up to a month
Oropouche Symptoms:
1. Fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, and a rash
2. Joint and muscle pain
3. Headaches
4. Symptoms typically appear 3-10 days after infection and last for about a week
Global Health Response and Travel Precautions
With the ongoing spread of these viruses, international health authorities are urging travelers to remain vigilant, particularly those visiting regions with active outbreaks. Though the risk of widespread transmission remains low in some countries, precautions should be taken, including avoiding areas with known outbreaks and following local health guidelines.
Travel Health Pro, a resource from the UK Health Security Agency, has recommended that travelers check with healthcare providers before departing, especially for high-risk areas. While there is no pre-travel Mpox vaccine available in the UK, the agency stresses the importance of taking preventive measures and securing proper travel health insurance.
In light of these developments, travelers are strongly advised to stay informed about potential health risks and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and those around them.
