WHO issues first comprehensive guidelines for filovirus disease management
8 reported
The World Health Organization has released its first comprehensive guidelines for the clinical management of filovirus disease, which includes all types of Ebola and Marburg viruses. The guidelines were issued as the Democratic Republic of the Congo is battling an Ebola outbreak caused by the Bundibugyo virus. The document outlines 16 evidence-based recommendations emphasizing early supportive care to improve patient survival and health outcomes. 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 aim to guide health workers, harmonize clinical approaches, and help administrators plan for filovirus disease outbreaks. Key recommendations include using prioritized lab tests, treating dehydration, managing shock, addressing bacterial infections, and providing structured after-care for survivors.
What’s reported
WHO released its first comprehensive guidelines for clinical management of filovirus disease, covering all Ebola and Marburg viruses.
The guidelines were issued as the DRC battles an Ebola outbreak caused by the Bundibugyo virus.
The guidelines contain 16 evidence-based recommendations.
Ebola and Marburg disease case fatality rates range 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 or treatments exist for Marburg, Bundibugyo, or Sudan virus diseases.
WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus called the current Bundibugyo outbreak a reminder of the need for diligent, holistic medical care.
Key recommendations include using prioritized lab tests, treating dehydration, managing shock with fluids and vasoactive medications, 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
