Jakarta, CNN Indonesia —
The Marburg virus is currently a threat in the African region. Even though it hasn’t been detected in Indonesia, it’s best to recognize how the Marburg virus is transmitted.
Marburg virus disease has killed 5 Tanzanians. Currently local health authorities are monitoring 161 contacts because of the risk of infection.
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The Ministry of Health also appealed to the public to remain vigilant.
“Although there have been no reports of cases of Marburg virus disease in Indonesia, the public is still asked to be vigilant because the disease fatality is high,” the Ministry of Health wrote via upload on its official Instagram account.
(Gambas:Instagram)
How is the Marburg virus transmitted?
The virus is transmitted from an infected person through blood, body fluids (urine, saliva, sweat, feces, vomit marks, breast milk, and semen or sperm). In addition, the virus can be transmitted through contaminated objects including tools and clothing worn by patients.
The virus will enter through open wounds or mucous membranes such as eyes, nose and mouth that are not protected.
With this way of transmission, people who are at risk of contracting it include families and medical workers who treat patients. In addition, people who have a history of travel to endemic countries including Africa have a history of contact with fruit bats (Rousettus aegyptiacus) or entering areas where bats live.
After exposure to the virus, people do not immediately get sick or develop symptoms. It takes about 2-21 days or it varies for each person before symptoms appear.
The World Health Organization (WHO) states that the initial symptoms of Marburg virus disease include high fever, severe headache, feeling unwell, muscle aches, severe diarrhea, abdominal pain and cramps, nausea and vomiting.
Between days 5 and 7, patients may experience ruptured blood vessels (hemorrhagic). If severe, bleeding in the nose, gums, vagina, vomit and feces.
Fatal impact or death can occur on the 8th and 9th day after preceded by shock and severe blood loss.
Although the impact is fatal, Marburg virus disease can be prevented. The Ministry of Health provides the following preventive measures.
1. Reduce contact with virus-carrying fruit bats.
2. Consumption of meat that has been cooked until cooked.
3. Avoid contact with infected people.
4. Health workers are required to implement infection prevention and control (PPI).
5. Wash your hands regularly.
6. Postpone travel to endemic areas.
(the/rds)
(Gambas:Video CNN)