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

By Adebowale Bello. Freelance Health Writer.

Wednesday, October 23, 2024. Rwanda has not recorded any new infections or deaths from the Marburg virus in the past week, as of October 22, leaving only one patient still in isolation. This offers a glimmer of hope that the worst of the outbreak may be over. The virus which had a fatality rate of 24%, posed a significant threat. However, the dedication of Rwanda’s frontline health workers has been instrumental in preventing the situation from spiraling further.

Rwanda’s robust approach to health crises has once again proven its effectiveness. While the Marburg outbreak posed unique challenges, Rwanda's tried-and-true methods of contact tracing and patient isolation played a critical role in curbing the virus’s spread. Early detection was key, enabling healthcare providers to initiate supportive care promptly. This included rehydration and symptom management, both of which significantly improved patients' chances of recovery.

A notable achievement during this outbreak was the successful extubation of patients who had been placed on ventilators for several days—a first in the history of Marburg outbreaks. Additionally, Rwanda's case fatality rate was the lowest recorded in any known Marburg outbreak, underscoring the effectiveness of its response. While these developments offer hope that the outbreak is nearing its end, health officials urge the public to remain vigilant. Simple preventive measures like regular handwashing, which not only protect against Marburg but also other infectious diseases, must continue to be a daily practice for all Rwandans.

Source: The New Times

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