By Elisha Singira

Following a notification of a Marburg Virus Diseases (MVD) outbreak in Rwanda, Kenya has taken measures to prevent it from reaching the country.

In a Press Statement by the ministry of Health, the Cabinet Secretary Dr. Deborah Barasa stated that MVD is an acute severe viral hemorrhagic (Bleeding) fever and is often fatal. She noted that it is highly transmissible and cases can spread rapidly within a short period of time. She however noted that no cases have been reported in the country yet.

The high alert measures have been taken because Kenya shares strong air and road network connections with Rwanda with daily flights and frequent road travels and trade routes. In view of that, the Cabinet Secretary said that the ministry was instituting urgent measures to prevent importation of cases and subsequent transmission across the country. In her statement, she said that surveillance had been enhanced in all counties and at all points of entry (PoEs).

Symptoms

She shared the following symptoms of Marburg Virus Disease

• Abrupt onset of high fever, severe headache and severe body weakness
• Muscle aches and pains
• Severe watery diarrhea, abdominal pain and cramping, nausea and vomiting
• Bleeding, often from multiple areas, usually reported 5-7 days after the onset of fever, such as fresh blood in vomitus and faeces is often accompanied by bleeding from body openings such as the nose, gums and vagina.

Transmission

Ontransmission, she mentioned the following as primary ways to contract MVD;

• Direct contact with the blood, secretions, organs or other bodily fluids of infected people and with surfaces and materials like bedding, clothing that are contaminated with these fluids.
• Healthcare workers or caregivers can be infected while treating infected patients
• Burial ceremonies that involve direct contact with the body of the deceased can also contribute in the transmission of the Marburg Virus Disease.

The Cabinet secretary advised the public take caution and adhere to the set guidelines to avoid contracting the virus. She advised the public to remain vigilant and report any suspected cases through the toll free number 0729471414 or 0732353535 or 719 for immediate assistance.