Travellers have been urged to take extra precautions as the Marburg, Mpox, and Oropouche viruses spread in 17 countries. Marburg, known as the ‘bleeding eyes’ virus, has killed 15 people in Rwanda with hundreds suspected to be infected. Mpox has been detected in multiple countries in central Africa, including the UK, leading to five confirmed cases. The UK Health Security Agency has advised travellers to take extra care and consult a health professional before travelling, especially pregnant and immunosuppressed individuals.
There is no pre-travel vaccine available for mpox in the UK, making it important for individuals to take precautions such as avoiding contact with sick individuals, washing hands frequently, and using hand sanitiser. Oropouche virus, spread through midge bites, has infected thousands of people in South American countries and the Caribbean. There are no specific medicines or vaccines for the virus, causing concern as a small number of infected individuals have died. It is recommended to check travel health insurance before going abroad to ensure coverage in case of infection.
Marburg virus, although rare in travellers, can be contracted through contact with infected individuals’ bodily fluids and mucous membranes. Symptoms include fever, severe headaches, muscle aches, diarrhoea, nausea, and bleeding from various parts of the body. Patients may die within eight or nine days after symptoms start, often due to severe blood loss or shock. Symptoms for mpox, which can appear up to 21 days after infection, include a rash, high temperature, headache, muscle aches, and swollen glands. Oropouche virus presents symptoms such as fever, headache, joint pain, muscle pain, nausea, vomiting, and rash.
The World Health Organization recommends contacting a health professional if experiencing symptoms or if planning to travel to affected regions. Precautions such as avoiding contact with infected individuals, washing hands frequently, and using hand sanitiser can help prevent the spread of these viruses. It is essential for pregnant and immunosuppressed individuals to take extra care when travelling. With the risk of these viruses spreading to other countries, travellers are advised to stay informed and take preventive measures to protect themselves and others. Stay updated with news on the outbreaks and follow guidelines from health authorities for safe travel.
