Bleeding Eye Virus: Doctors Advise How To Prevent Contracting The Marburg Disease

With reports from UK & US raising alarm over news of the spread of bleeding eye virus, people in India want to know how to stay safe from the deadly Marburg disease. Here is what doctors told ABP Live

There has been no information of any cases of Marburg virus to have been found in India.

Source : Canva (modified)

'Bleeding Eye’ Virus Outbreak: The UK media are reporting that travellers have been urged to take extra precautions as the Marburg, Mpox and Oropouche viruses have reportedly spread in 17 countries. The deadliest among them is the ‘bleeding eye’ virus — named so after one of its symptoms. It is also called the Marburg Virus Disease, which has killed 15 people in Rwanda, where hundreds are suspected to be infected.

Feared as one of the deadliest diseases on Earth — with a 50-50 chance of death — the Marburg virus disease could spread to other African countries already dealing with other outbreaks, and thereafter to the rest of the world.

There has been no information of any cases of Marburg, Mpox and Oropouche viruses to have been found in India. However, there is fear among the public about such an eventuality, with most recalling the Covid-19 pandemic and the heavy losses its global spread caused. 

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Routine Steps To Prevent Spread Of Bleeding Eye Virus

ABP Live spoke to Dr Rohit Kumar Garg, Senior Consultant, Infectious Diseases, Amrita Hospital, Faridabad, and Dr Aklesh Tandekar, Head Consultant Critical Care, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, Mumbai, to know what steps to take to stall the march of the bleeding eye virus in India. They shared the following tips:

• Maintain good hand hygiene: Wash hands frequently with soap and water
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, especially in crowded areas
• Disinfect frequently-touched surfaces and shared items
• Use personal protective equipment (PPE) like masks masks, gloves, and gowns if in close contact with someone who is infected or if outbreaks occur
• Avoid direct contact with infected individuals or their bodily fluids such as blood, sweat, and saliva 
• Avoid handling bush meat or eating undercooked meat

Actions If Infected Or Exposed To Infected Person

• Isolate yourself to prevent spreading the infection
• Seek medical care immediately for confirmation and guidance if symptoms are present or if exposure is suspected
• Avoid touching your face and sharing personal items like towels or glasses
• Use disposable tissues to clean eye discharge and dispose of them safely
• Notify contacts for timely precautions if exposure is suspected
• Follow healthcare provider instructions for treatment and care

The author is an independent journalist.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or health concern.