The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) reported 27 confirmed Marburg Virus Disease cases and nine deaths in Rwanda as of September 30, 2024.
Rwanda’s Ministry of Health declared the outbreak on September 27.
According to Africa CDC, “As of September 30, 27 confirmed cases and nine deaths have been reported; most of the cases are healthcare workers. Over 297 contacts have been registered and are under follow-up.”
The Ministry of Health is working with partners to contain the virus. “The Ministry of Health is working tirelessly in collaboration with relevant partners to contain the deadly virus through enhanced preventive measures in all health facilities. Contact tracing is underway, and cases have been isolated for treatment.”
Rwandans were urged to remain vigilant. “The Ministry of Health further urged Rwandans to remain vigilant and strengthen preventive measures by ensuring hygiene, washing hands with soap, sanitizing hands, and taking necessary precautionary measures when in contact with other individuals.”
Marburg Virus Disease is a severe, often fatal zoonotic hemorrhagic illness. “There is currently no vaccine or specific treatment for MVD, so supportive therapy should be initiated immediately for any individuals presenting with the disease. The same infection prevention and control protocols used for other viral hemorrhagic fevers, such as Ebola, should be followed to prevent transmission.”
Africa CDC dispatched experts to Rwanda on September 29. The organization collaborates with neighboring countries to address cross-border aspects. “Africa CDC is also collaborating with the Ministry of Health and neighbouring countries of Burundi, Uganda, Tanzania, and DR Congo to assist in addressing the cross-border aspects of the outbreak and to provide guidance on regional surveillance strategies to contain the outbreak.”
Rwanda’s Health Minister, Sabin Nsanzimana, and Africa CDC’s Director General, Dr. Jean Kaseya, will discuss Rwanda’s efforts during a press briefing on October 3.
 reported 27 confirmed Marburg Virus Disease cases and nine deaths in Rwanda as of September 30, 2024.){kind=link}