On Sunday afternoon, the Ministry of Health in Rwanda held a press conference to update the public on the country’s first-ever outbreak of the Marburg virus.
Health Minister Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana confirmed that the virus has claimed six lives and infected 20 people. He reassured Rwandans that the government is working tirelessly to contain the situation.
Dr. Nsanzimana noted that while this is the first time the virus has appeared in Rwanda, it is not new globally, having been recorded in 13 outbreaks in various countries. “This virus often comes from animals like monkeys or bats. Once it infects a human, symptoms can appear between three to 21 days,” he explained.
Since its detection in Rwanda, health authorities have been investigating the source but have yet to determine its origin.
The outbreak has also triggered an extensive contact tracing effort, with approximately 300 people identified as having been in contact with infected individuals. So far, 20 people have tested positive for the virus.
WHO Urges Public Vigilance
At the briefing, Dr. Brian Chirombo, the World Health Organization (WHO) representative in Rwanda, urged the public to remain vigilant. He pointed out that while the region has dealt with Marburg outbreaks before, past efforts have shown that the virus can be controlled swiftly with coordinated action.
“This is not the first Marburg outbreak in this region,” Dr. Chirombo said. “It has been controlled quickly before, but this requires the cooperation of the public and health authorities in reporting cases and following prevention measures.”
No Need for Panic, Public Assured
Dr. Nsanzimana emphasized that there is no need for panic, as the Marburg virus is not airborne, unlike other diseases such as COVID-19. He encouraged Rwandans to go about their daily activities while observing hygiene and avoiding physical contact, the main mode of transmission.
“This disease does not spread through the air but through physical contact with bodily fluids such as blood and saliva,” he said. “We ask people to remain calm and continue their normal activities while maintaining cleanliness and avoiding contact with symptomatic individuals.”
The government has taken responsibility for all treatment costs for infected individuals. “The government is covering all expenses related to treating those affected by Marburg, whether they are mildly or severely ill,” said Dr. Nsanzimana.
Containment Efforts in Full Swing
The Health Minister reiterated that swift containment of the virus is the government’s top priority. While investigations continue, the government is not imposing any restrictions on public movement.
“We have said from the start that people should continue their activities as usual. We are in a good place, and similar outbreaks in other countries have lasted no more than two or three months,” Dr. Nsanzimana noted. “The key now is to stop the spread quickly.”