Marburg, one of the deadliest viruses known to humanity, has been announced in Rwanda, triggering nationwide concern.
The outbreak has claimed the lives of six people, according to a statement from the Rwanda Ministry of Health (MINISANTE).
Just days after the virus appeared in the country, health officials are scrambling to contain its spread, as fear and uncertainty grip the population.
The highly contagious and often fatal disease, which shares many symptoms with Ebola, is spread through contact with the bodily fluids of infected individuals.
On Saturday, September 28, 2024, Rwanda’s Minister of Health, Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, confirmed that 26 people have contracted the virus.
“This is a serious health emergency,” Dr. Nsanzimana said during a press briefing in Kigali. The government has already taken measures to trace and isolate those exposed to the virus while deploying rapid response teams to the affected regions.
However, the rapid transmission and high mortality rate of Marburg make containment efforts especially challenging.
According to Nsanzimana, Marburg is a highly contagious and deadly disease, making it crucial to identify cases early and carefully monitor infected patients to prevent more fatalities.
Health authorities are prioritising early diagnosis and treatment as key strategies in their efforts to reduce the risk of further deaths.
Most of the people infected or who have died so far are healthcare workers, especially those in intensive care units.
Health officials, together with the government and their partners, are working hard to control the outbreak and stop the virus from spreading further.
They are tracking down people who were in contact with the infected patients and those who have passed away.
The Minister of Health pointed out that the support and cooperation of Rwandans have been essential in dealing with past outbreaks, and he is confident this one can also be brought under control.
Nsanzimana further stressed the importance of identifying anyone who may have been exposed to the virus and keeping them under observation, where doctors can check for symptoms and provide treatment if necessary.
The minister reassured the public that those who have died from the virus are being handled respectfully, with care taken to prevent further spread of the disease.
“Everyone should stay calm and follow the health guidelines to help stop the outbreak,” the minister said, expressing deep sympathy to the families of the victims, promising that the government will continue to support them during this tough time.
Rwandans’ cooperation has been crucial in controlling past outbreaks, and there is hope that this one can also be defeated.
Marburg facts
The Marburg virus spreads through direct contact with an infected person’s bodily fluids, such as blood, and can also be transmitted by touching contaminated surfaces. Although there is no cure or vaccine, getting medical help early can improve survival chances.
Rwanda is currently using the same preventive measures for Marburg as it did for Ebola, as both viruses are highly contagious and often deadly, causing severe hemorrhagic fever in those infected.
Border Authorities
However, Uganda-Rwanda border authorities have intensified medical surveillance to prevent the virus from crossing into Uganda.
Health teams conduct thorough screenings at border points, monitor travelers for symptoms, and implement strict measures to ensure that anyone showing signs of illness is promptly isolated.
These efforts aim to contain the outbreak within Rwanda and prevent the disease from spreading across the border, safeguarding the health of both nations.
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