Rwanda Declares End of Marburg Virus Outbreak

By: Adebowale Bello. B.Tech Microbiology. Freelance Health Writer.

Partial East Africa map showing Rwanda and neighbouring countries

On December 20, 2024, Rwanda declared the end of its first-ever Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) outbreak. This announcement followed 42 days without new confirmed cases after the last patient tested negative twice on November 7, in line with World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. The outbreak, first declared on September 27, affected 66 people, claimed 15 lives (a case fatality rate of 23%) and saw 51 recoveries. Rwanda’s effective response offers valuable insights into managing viral outbreaks across Africa.

Key Details from Rwanda's Outbreak

• Timeline: The outbreak peaked early, with 61 cases reported in the first three weeks. By October 30, the last confirmed case was recorded, signaling the outbreak’s containment.

• Affected Population: Nearly 78% of cases were healthcare workers from Kigali’s health facilities, highlighting the occupational risks faced by frontline workers.

• Testing and Surveillance: Rwanda conducted over 7,800 Marburg virus tests during the outbreak. Enhanced surveillance in high-risk zones, such as caves and mines, played a critical role.

How Rwanda Managed the Outbreak

Rwanda’s success stemmed from swift, coordinated efforts between its government, WHO and partners like the U.S Centre for Disease Control (CDC) and Africa CDC. Key strategies included: 

• Rapid Case Identification and Isolation: Health authorities swiftly isolated infected individuals, reducing community spread.

• Training and Awareness: Over 11 priority border points were strengthened with surveillance systems, while health workers underwent training in infection prevention and control.

• Support for Survivors: A recovery program provided psychological support and monitored recovered patients to mitigate potential viral persistence risks.

Challenges and Risks

Despite successfully ending the outbreak, Rwanda remains vigilant. The risk of re-emergence persists due to:

• Animal Reservoirs: Fruit bats continue to pose a spillover risk.

• Viral Persistence: In some cases, the virus remains in body fluids, particularly semen, long after recovery, potentially sparking new infections.

What Can Individuals Do?

Africans can take several steps to minimize risks:  

• Avoid contact with bats or their habitats, such as caves.

• Practice good hygiene and avoid touching sick individuals or their belongings.

• Report unexplained fevers, especially after traveling or handling wildlife.

Lessons for Africa

The outbreak underscores several critical lessons for African nations:

1. Early Detection Is Key: Strengthening healthcare systems to detect diseases early can save lives and reduce economic impacts.

2. Community Engagement Matters: Public trust is vital. Rwanda’s transparent communication helped communities adhere to preventive measures.

3. Protecting Healthcare Workers: Given their vulnerability, providing adequate personal protective equipment (PPE) and training is non-negotiable.

Wrap Up

The Marburg outbreak in Rwanda serves as a wake-up call for African countries. Investing in healthcare infrastructure, promoting research into vaccines and treatments and fostering cross-border collaborations are critical for future preparedness.

Rwanda’s effective response demonstrates that with the right strategies, even the deadliest outbreaks can be controlled.

Source: World Health Organization Newsroom

Related:

Rwanda Begins Countdown to End the Marburg Virus Disease

Rwanda Receives Marburg Virus Vaccines Amid Outbreak

Rwanda’s Marburg Outbreak: No New Cases Amidst Ongoing Vigilance

Published: December 24, 2024

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