WHO releases first comprehensive guidelines for filovirus disease management
7 reported
The World Health Organization has issued its first comprehensive guidelines for the clinical management of filovirus disease, covering all types of Ebola and Marburg viruses. The release comes as the Democratic Republic of the Congo is battling an Ebola outbreak caused by the Bundibugyo virus. The guidelines emphasize early supportive care to improve patient survival and health outcomes, outlining 16 evidence-based recommendations. WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated that the guidelines demonstrate how WHO uses science to protect and care for people during outbreaks. The recommendations were developed through global expert consultations and based on the most up-to-date scientific evidence and clinical knowledge. The guidelines aim to guide health workers, harmonize clinical approaches, and help administrators plan for filovirus disease outbreaks.
What’s reported
WHO released its first comprehensive guidelines for clinical management of filovirus disease, including all types of Ebola and Marburg viruses.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo is currently battling an Ebola outbreak caused by the Bundibugyo virus.
The guidelines highlight early supportive care and include 16 evidence-based recommendations.
Ebola and Marburg diseases have case fatality rates ranging from 25% to 90% in the most severe outbreaks.
There have been 72 outbreaks of Ebola and Marburg diseases reported in Africa since 1967.
No licensed vaccines and treatments exist for Marburg virus disease, Bundibugyo and Sudan virus diseases.
Key recommendations include using prioritized clinical lab tests, treating dehydration, using intravenous fluids for shock, treating bacterial infections with antibiotics, and providing structured after-care for survivors.
Key figures
Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General
Sources: World Health Organization
