Kigali, 11 October 2024 – Rwanda is battling a growing outbreak of Marburg virus disease (MVD), with 58 confirmed cases reported as of 10 October 2024, including 13 deaths.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared the outbreak a grade 3 emergency, its highest alert level.
The virus, which is similar to Ebola, has left the country on high alert as health workers and international experts rush to contain the spread.
Since the outbreak was first confirmed on 27 September, Rwanda has witnessed an alarming rise in cases, with 32 new infections reported in just the past week.
Of the confirmed cases, 15 people have recovered, while 30 others remain under medical care at a designated Marburg treatment center.
Tragically, health workers account for over 80% of the confirmed infections, highlighting the vulnerability of frontline medical staff.
Efforts to Contain the Spread
WHO and the Rwandan government have mobilised resources to combat the outbreak. Contact tracing is underway, with over 700 people identified as having come into contact with confirmed patients.
Among them, one person traveled to Germany and is being monitored by local authorities, while another, who traveled to Belgium, has completed the mandatory 21-day follow-up and is no longer considered a risk.
More than 2,900 tests have been conducted to detect the virus, with around 200-300 samples tested daily at the Rwanda Biomedical Center.
In response to the growing number of cases, a WHO surge team has arrived in Rwanda to assist with incident management, case tracking, infection control, and research efforts.
What is Marburg Virus Disease?
Marburg virus disease is a severe illness that can cause haemorrhagic fever, similar to Ebola. It spreads through direct contact with bodily fluids from an infected person or contaminated surfaces.
Initial symptoms include fever, headache, and fatigue, followed by vomiting, diarrhea, and sometimes severe bleeding.
Fatalities usually occur between 8 and 9 days after symptoms appear, primarily due to massive blood loss and shock.
The virus is often transmitted to humans through close contact with Rousettus bats, which are commonly found in caves and mines.
From there, it spreads from person to person, particularly in healthcare settings or during burial ceremonies that involve contact with the deceased.
While there is no approved vaccine or treatment for MVD, several experimental therapies and vaccines are currently under development.
Outbreaks of Marburg have previously occurred in countries neighboring Rwanda, including Uganda, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, with the most recent outbreaks reported in 2023.
Ongoing Response and Global Concern
Rwanda’s response to the outbreak is being coordinated by the Ministry of Health, with support from WHO and other international partners.
Efforts are focused on isolating patients, contact tracing, and preventing further spread in healthcare facilities.
The WHO Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network (GOARN) has issued a call for expert assistance, particularly in case management and research.
WHO has also warned neighboring countries to step up their preparedness, particularly in areas bordering Rwanda.
This includes strengthening border health measures, enhancing detection capabilities, and conducting risk mapping.
Despite the severity of the situation, WHO has advised against imposing travel or trade restrictions with Rwanda, noting that Marburg virus is not easily transmissible and requires direct contact with an infected individual.
Looking Ahead
As the outbreak continues to unfold, health authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant.
Raising awareness about the risks of infection and encouraging early medical care are essential to controlling the spread of the virus.
Communities are being advised to avoid contact with infected individuals and to ensure safe and dignified burials for the deceased.
While the source of the outbreak is still under investigation, efforts to contain it are being ramped up.
WHO is supporting Rwanda in conducting clinical trials and in establishing a program for survivors.
The outbreak serves as a stark reminder of the need for robust public health systems and international cooperation in combating deadly infectious diseases.
For now, the world watches as Rwanda faces one of its most challenging health emergencies in recent years.
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