The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, known as Africa CDC, has shared that Rwanda is dealing with an outbreak of Marburg Virus Disease, also called MVD. As of September 30, 2024, there are 27 cases and 9 people have died from this virus.
Rwanda’s Ministry of Health announced this outbreak on September 27. Since then, many efforts have been made to stop the spread of this dangerous virus.
Africa CDC said on Tuesday, “We have identified over 297 people who may have come into contact with the virus. We are keeping a close watch on them.”
The Ministry of Health, along with its partners, is working hard to stop the virus by taking steps in hospitals. They are also trying to find and isolate those who have the virus to provide them with care. People in Rwanda are reminded to be careful, keep clean, and avoid close contact with others to stay safe.
Marburg Virus Disease is a serious illness that causes heavy bleeding and often leads to death. The virus comes from fruit bats and can be passed to people if they touch the blood or other fluids of someone who is sick.
Right now, there is no vaccine or special treatment for Marburg Virus Disease. The best doctors can do is help patients feel better with supportive care.
Africa CDC has sent experts to Rwanda to help manage the situation. They are also working with neighboring countries like Burundi, Uganda, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of Congo to keep a watch on the borders and control the spread.
On October 3, Rwanda’s Minister of Health, Sabin Nsanzimana, and Africa CDC’s Director General, Dr. Jean Kaseya, will hold a press briefing to talk about how Rwanda is handling the outbreak.
This outbreak of Marburg virus is making people worry more about how well the region can handle new viral diseases. Health officials are working hard to stop it from spreading further.