Marburg virus, a deadly Ebola-like virus, recently caused an outbreak in Rwanda, resulting in eight deaths.

According to the World Health Organization, Marburg is a highly contagious viral hemorrhagic fever, part of the same family as the Ebola virus, and is known for its severe symptoms and high mortality rate.

The virus was first identified in 1967 during an outbreak in Germany and Serbia, detected in African monkeys that were imported for research.

It spreads to humans from its natural host, fruit bats, and can then be transmitted between humans through direct contact with the bodily fluids of an infected person, including blood, saliva or urine.

Once infected, individuals experience symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, muscle pain, vomiting and diarrhea.

In severe cases, the virus causes internal bleeding, organ failure and shock, which often proves fatal. The mortality rate can range from 24% to 88% depending on the strain and the effectiveness of medical care.

In Rwanda, health officials have moved quickly to contain the spread of the virus, isolating patients and tracing possible contacts. Given its similarity to Ebola in both symptoms and mode of transmission, prevention protocols are important in preventing the outbreak from escalating.

There is currently no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine available for Marburg virus, making early supportive care such as rehydration and symptom management essential to increase survival rates.

Efforts are underway globally to develop effective treatments, but in the meantime, public health measures such as isolation, protective gear and hygiene practices are the best defense against the spread of the virus.

More than 200 people were quarantined after nine people died due to Marburg disease in February.