Rwanda Receives Marburg Virus Vaccines Amid Outbreak

By: Modupe Adeniyi. Freelance Health Reporter.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2024. As the Marburg virus outbreak intensifies, Rwanda has received a crucial shipment of vaccines. Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, Minister of Health, confirmed on Sunday, October 6, that approximately 700 doses arrived in the country the previous night. The vaccination campaign is set to commence immediately with healthcare workers and frontline response teams at the top of the priority list. Dr. Nsanzimana emphasized the importance of protecting those most at risk, stating, "Individuals who have been in contact with confirmed cases will be prioritized for vaccination."

This rapid response comes on the heels of Rwanda's first-ever confirmed Marburg virus outbreak, announced on September 27. The country has since reported 46 cases and 12 deaths, with healthcare workers bearing the brunt of the impact. According to the Ministry of Health, a staggering 80% of the confirmed cases are among medical professionals.

The Sabin Vaccine Institute, which provided the vaccines with support from the U.S. government, highlighted the urgency of the situation. "The initial shipment of approximately 700 vaccine doses will be used in a trial targeting frontline workers, including healthcare professionals who have been hardest hit by the deadly virus," the institute stated. Demonstrating remarkable efficiency, the Sabin Vaccine Institute managed to deliver the doses within a week of receiving the request. This swift action underscores the global health community's commitment to combating emerging threats.

The vaccination effort is part of a broader strategy to contain the outbreak. As of October 3, health authorities had identified at least 400 contacts of confirmed cases, illustrating the potential for rapid spread. Currently, 29 patients are in isolation, receiving treatment for the haemorrhagic disease, which presents with symptoms including high fever, severe headaches, muscle aches, vomiting and diarrhea.

In a show of international solidarity, U.S. company Gilead Sciences has donated approximately 5,000 vials of its antiviral drug remdesivir for emergency use in treating Marburg virus patients in Rwanda. This multi-faceted approach, combining vaccination, contact tracing and treatment, demonstrates Rwanda's comprehensive strategy in tackling the outbreak. The success of Rwanda's response could provide valuable insights for global preparedness against similar outbreaks in the future. With the arrival of these vaccines and the dedication of healthcare workers on the front lines, there is hope that the tide may soon turn in the battle against the Marburg virus in Rwanda.
 

Source: The New Times

Related:

Rwanda Declares Marburg Virus Outbreak With 8 Deaths

Published: OCTOBER 9, 2024

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