Rwanda has officially ended its Marburg virus outbreak, Health Minister Sabin Nsanzimana announced on Friday. The declaration comes 42 days after the recovery of the last known patient, meeting the World Health Organization (WHO) criteria for the conclusion of an outbreak.
Key Facts:
- First Cases: The outbreak began in mid-September, marking Rwanda’s first experience with the Marburg virus, a severe viral hemorrhagic fever.
- Statistics:
- Total Cases: 66 confirmed.
- Deaths: 15 fatalities reported.
- Recoveries: 51 patients successfully recovered.
Minister’s Statement:
“It has been a long journey, but today we come to the end of the Marburg outbreak in Rwanda,” Nsanzimana said during a news conference. “It took us 42 days since the last patient tested negative and was discharged… Last night at midnight marked the end of the 42nd day, therefore we declare Marburg over in Rwanda.”
Public Health Efforts:
The country’s rapid response and coordinated health measures contributed significantly to controlling the outbreak. Surveillance, case management, community engagement, and collaboration with the WHO played critical roles.
What is Marburg Virus?
- Nature of the Disease:
The Marburg virus causes a highly infectious hemorrhagic fever, with symptoms such as severe bleeding, organ failure, and shock. - Transmission:
It spreads through direct contact with bodily fluids of infected individuals or contaminated surfaces. - Mortality Rate:
Can reach up to 88% in severe outbreaks, underscoring the significance of Rwanda’s containment success.
Global Implications:
Rwanda’s effective management of the outbreak sets an example for responding to future viral epidemics in resource-limited settings. It also reinforces the importance of international health cooperation in tackling infectious diseases.
The country now shifts its focus to maintaining vigilance and strengthening its health system to prevent similar crises in the future.
