The Marburg virus, often referred to as "bleeding eye virus," has prompted health officials to closely monitor an ongoing outbreak in Rwanda. While concerns exist about potential international spread, the current risk to the United States remains low, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Resembling the Ebola virus, Marburg is a rare but dangerous viral hemorrhagic fever with a high mortality rate, ranging from 20% to 90%, as per the CDC. The virus first emerged in Rwanda in September, and as of November 29, 66 cases and 15 deaths have been recorded, primarily among healthcare workers.

Dr. Marc Siegel, a Fox News medical analyst, describes Marburg as one of the deadliest viruses affecting humans, similar to Ebola in its ability to cause hemorrhagic fever. Initial symptoms mirror the flu, including fever, body aches, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and vomiting. The incubation period, the time between infection and symptom onset, is typically two to 21 days.

Severe cases can lead to significant weight loss, jaundice, pancreatic inflammation, delirium, shock, liver failure, extensive bleeding, and multi-organ failure. The virus can also cause bleeding from the eyes, giving it the nickname "bleeding eye virus." Transmission occurs through bodily fluids, blood, and contact with contaminated surfaces. The Egyptian rousette bat is considered the primary natural host.

Currently, there are no established treatments or vaccines for Marburg. Medical care focuses on managing symptoms through supportive measures such as oxygen therapy, pain relief, and intravenous fluids for rehydration. Experimental treatments, including a vaccine, are under development. Death typically occurs within eight to nine days of symptom onset, usually due to blood loss.

To prevent infection, the CDC recommends avoiding contact with bodily fluids of infected individuals, refraining from touching potentially contaminated items, and avoiding contact with Egyptian rousette bats and non-human primates in affected regions.

The outbreak in Rwanda will be declared over if no new cases are reported by December 22, 2024, marking 42 days without new infections after the last recovered patient tests negative twice, 48 hours apart.