Rwanda’s Health Ministry Signals Progress in Marburg Fight

By The Inspirer.

The Rwandan Ministry of Health has expressed optimism in its battle against the Marburg virus outbreak, with positive signs emerging from ongoing efforts to contain the deadly disease. Minister of Health, Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, announced during an October 13, 2024 press briefing that recent interventions are yielding results.

As of September 27, 2024, when Rwanda detected its first case of Marburg, the virus has infected 61 people, leading to 14 deaths and 18 recoveries. Dr. Nsanzimana highlighted that the country is seeing an increase in recoveries, with no new cases reported in the past three days.

“There are encouraging signs showing that the efforts being made are producing results. In the past three days, no new cases were reported, which is a positive development,” said Dr. Nsanzimana. “We’ve seen recoveries continue to rise, now totaling 18, while the death toll stands at 14.”

Despite these positive trends, the Minister cautioned against complacency, revealing that three patients remain in critical condition. “Of the 29 patients currently receiving care, three are in serious condition but are being treated to prevent further deterioration.”

New Measures and Vaccination Campaign

Dr. Nsanzimana also disclosed that Rwanda is revising its strategy to further tackle the outbreak, with new guidelines expected to be introduced soon. “Many decisions were made in the first week, but some will change and new ones will be added. It’s time to review our approach,” he said.

Vaccination efforts are continuing, particularly for frontline healthcare workers and individuals at high risk of infection. Rwanda recently received an additional 1,000 doses of the vaccine, aimed at boosting immunity and curbing the virus’s spread. “We are vaccinating those who have come into contact with the virus to protect them because once the virus enters the body, treatment options are limited,” Dr. Nsanzimana explained.

He confirmed that a mass vaccination campaign is not necessary at this stage but urged the public to continue following preventive measures.

WHO Backs Rwanda’s Efforts Amid Economic Concerns

World Health Organization (WHO) Rwanda representative, Dr. Brian Chirombo, praised the country’s efforts in controlling the outbreak and criticized international decisions to suspend travel and trade with Rwanda. “The measures taken by Rwanda and its partners are sufficient. Halting travel only worsens the country’s economy without contributing to the fight against Marburg,” Dr. Chirombo said.

He emphasized that the progress made in patient recoveries is a testament to the effectiveness of Rwanda’s response. “Seeing patients recover is proof that those infected are receiving appropriate care. Rwanda is not the first country to face this disease, but overcoming it requires time and effort.”

Marburg Virus Symptoms and Prevention

The Marburg virus, which can be fatal in up to 90% of cases, presents symptoms such as headaches, severe fatigue, high fever, muscle pain, abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, vomiting, and blood-mixed stools or vomit.

Health experts advise maintaining hygiene, washing hands with clean water and soap, avoiding contact with bodily fluids, and following other preventive measures to stop the virus’s spread.

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