Bleeding Eye Virus Scare Sparks Global Alarm

way2barak, 6 December: A mysterious virus causing “bleeding eye” symptoms has emerged in Africa, sparking fears of a potential global health threat. Reports from several regions indicate rising cases of a disease marked by conjunctival hemorrhaging, fever, and other flu-like symptoms. Health experts are monitoring its spread closely, though the exact pathogen remains unidentified.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed concern, urging nations to enhance surveillance and preparedness. Experts caution against panic, emphasizing that timely containment can prevent further spread.

This scare follows other recent outbreaks, underscoring the need for robust international collaboration in early detection and response to emerging health threats.

Similar to the Elbola virus, Marburg virus also known as bleeding eyes is a “rare but severe viral hemorrhagic fever” that is highly deadly, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It has a 20% to 90% fatality rate.

The first case in Rwanda was confirmed in September. As of Nov. 29, the country had reported 66 cases of the virus and 15 deaths. Most of the infected people have been health care workers.

Approximately 75% of the patients with Marburg have recovered, according to the CDC. Initial symptoms usually mimic the flu, including fever, body aches, diarrhea, abdominal pain and vomiting.

The interval between infection and symptoms is typically two to 21 days.

In severe cases, patients may experience extreme weight loss, jaundice, inflammation of the pancreas, delirium, shock, liver failure, massive hemorrhaging and multi-organ dysfunction, the CDC stated.

It can also cause bleeding from the eyes, nose, mouth or gastrointestinal tract, hence the nickname “bleeding eye virus.

The virus is transmitted via bodily surfaces, blood and contact with contaminated surfaces.

The “primary reservoir” (natural host) for the virus is the Egyptian rousette bat (Rousettus aegyptiacus), the CDC noted.

Medical providers can manage symptoms with supportive care, including oxygen, pain medications and IV fluids for rehydration.

“There are other treatments in the works, including an experimental vaccine,” the doctor noted.

For those who succumb to the disease, death usually occurs within eight to nine days after symptom onset, typically due to blood loss.

Although the doctor said there is a risk of intercontinental spread, he does not believe it is contagious enough for a widespread outbreak.

To avoid contracting to  the CDC has issued the following recommendations on its website.

1. Avoid contact with the blood and bodily fluids of those who are experiencing symptoms.

2. Do not touch items that may have come in contact with the bodily fluids of an infected person.

3. Avoid contact with Egyptian rousette bats and non-human primates in areas where Marburg cases have been reported.