Kigali, Rwanda – October 1, 2024: The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has confirmed 27 cases of Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) and nine fatalities in the Republic of Rwanda as of September 30, 2024.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Africa CDC revealed that the Rwandan Ministry of Health had declared the outbreak on September 27, 2024. The virus has largely affected healthcare workers, with over 297 contacts currently being monitored.
“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 those infected have been isolated for treatment,” the statement said. Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant, practice good hygiene, wash hands regularly, and take necessary precautions to limit transmission.
Marburg virus disease is a severe and often fatal zoonotic haemorrhagic illness, primarily transmitted to humans by fruit bats. Human-to-human transmission occurs through direct contact with bodily fluids from an infected person or materials contaminated by infectious blood or tissues.
“There is currently no vaccine or specific treatment for MVD. Supportive therapy should be initiated immediately for any affected individuals, and infection prevention protocols similar to those used for Ebola should be followed to prevent further spread,” Africa CDC noted.
On September 29, Africa CDC dispatched a team of experts to Rwanda to assist in containment efforts. The agency is also coordinating with neighbouring countries, including Burundi, Uganda, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, to manage cross-border risks and enhance regional surveillance strategies.
Rwanda’s Minister of Health, Sabin Nsanzimana, and the Director General of Africa CDC, Dr. Jean Kaseya, are expected to address the situation in a press briefing on Thursday, October 3, 2024.
Africa CDC, an autonomous health agency of the African Union, continues to support member states in strengthening health systems, disease surveillance, and emergency response efforts across the continent.
