Marburg virus kills nine in Rwanda
Rwanda battles a Marburg Virus outbreak with 27 cases and 9 deaths. Africa CDC aids containment efforts as health authorities ramp up preventive measures.
The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has confirmed an outbreak of Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) in Rwanda, with 27 reported cases and nine deaths as of September 30, 2024. Rwanda’s Ministry of Health declared the outbreak on September 27 and has since been working with partners to contain the highly fatal virus.
According to Africa CDC, over 297 contacts have been identified and are currently under close surveillance. Preventive measures are being ramped up in healthcare facilities, focusing on contact tracing, isolation, and treatment of confirmed cases. Rwandans are advised to maintain strict hygiene protocols and take precautions when interacting with others.
Marburg Virus Disease, a zoonotic haemorrhagic fever, is primarily transmitted to humans through fruit bats and spreads via direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected individuals. With no available vaccine or specific treatment, supportive care remains the primary approach to managing the illness.
In response, Africa CDC has dispatched a team of experts to support Rwanda's efforts and is working closely with neighboring countries like Burundi, Uganda, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of Congo to strengthen surveillance and control at borders.
Rwanda’s Minister of Health, Sabin Nsanzimana, alongside Africa CDC Director General Dr. Jean Kaseya, will address the nation on October 3 to provide updates on the outbreak and response efforts. The Marburg outbreak underscores growing concerns about the region’s capacity to tackle emerging viral threats as authorities rush to prevent further spread.
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