Rwanda Marburg virus outbreak rises to 27 confirmed cases, 9 deaths

In a follow-up on the Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) outbreak in Rwanda, the health ministry reports in an update today that the total confirmed cases has risen to 27 and the death toll has risen to nine.

Marburg virus disease is a rare, severe viral hemorrhagic fever similar to Ebola, which is spread in several countries in Africa by certain types of bats. It can cause deadly infections in people. The virus can also spread from person-to-person through direct contact with people who are sick. Healthcare workers in outbreak settings are at an increased risk of infection. Symptoms can appear suddenly and may include fever, rash, and severe bleeding.

Currently there are no licensed vaccines or treatments. However, several promising countermeasures are in clinical trials.