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| A woman with Marburg virus infection has a rash on her back. Image source: CDC |
The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has confirmed that Rwanda is facing an outbreak of Marburg Virus Disease, with 27 reported cases and nine deaths as of September 30, 2024.
The Rwandan Ministry of Health announced the outbreak on September 27, 2024. Most of the cases are healthcare workers, and over 297 people who were in contact with them are being monitored.
The Ministry of Health is working with partners to contain the virus by implementing preventive measures in health facilities. They are also tracing contacts and isolating confirmed cases for treatment. The Ministry has urged the public to remain cautious, maintain good hygiene, wash hands regularly, and take precautions when in contact with others.
Marburg Virus Disease is a severe illness that often leads to death. It spreads from fruit bats to humans and can also be transmitted from person to person through direct contact with body fluids of infected people.
There is no vaccine or specific treatment for Marburg Virus Disease yet, so patients receive supportive care. The same protocols used for diseases like Ebola should be followed to prevent the spread of the virus.
On September 29th, the Africa CDC sent a team of experts to help Rwanda respond to the outbreak. They are also working with neighboring countries, including Burundi, Uganda, Tanzania, and DR Congo, to address cross-border concerns and improve regional monitoring.
The Rwandan Minister of Health, Sabin Nsanzimana, will join the Africa CDC press briefing on October 3 to discuss efforts to control the outbreak.
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