How Ruanda Virus Spreads and How to Prevent Infection
What is Ruanda Virus?
Ruanda virus is a rare but potentially deadly virus that is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. The virus is found in parts of Africa, including Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda.
How is Ruanda Virus Spread?
Ruanda virus is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. The virus is not spread from person to person.
Mosquitoes become infected with the virus by biting an infected animal, such as a monkey or bird. The virus then multiplies in the mosquito's saliva. When the mosquito bites a human, the virus is injected into the person's bloodstream.
Symptoms of Ruanda Virus
Symptoms of Ruanda virus can range from mild to severe. The most common symptoms include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Joint pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Rash
- Bleeding
- Organ failure
Diagnosis of Ruanda Virus
Ruanda virus is diagnosed based on the patient's symptoms and a blood test. The blood test can detect the virus in the patient's bloodstream.
Treatment of Ruanda Virus
There is no specific treatment for Ruanda virus. Treatment is supportive and includes:
- Rest
- Fluids
- Pain relievers
- Antibiotics to prevent or treat bacterial infections
Prevention of Ruanda Virus
There is no vaccine to prevent Ruanda virus. The best way to prevent infection is to avoid mosquito bites.
To avoid mosquito bites, you should:
- Wear long sleeves and pants when you are in areas where mosquitoes are present.
- Use insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or IR3535.
- Sleep under a mosquito net.
- Get rid of standing water around your home, where mosquitoes can breed.
Outlook for Ruanda Virus
The outlook for Ruanda virus infection depends on the severity of the infection. Most people who are infected with the virus recover completely. However, some people may develop severe complications, such as organ failure or death.
