The Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, is in Rwanda to assess the ongoing response to the Marburg virus outbreak and to reaffirm WHO’s commitment to supporting local efforts.
Dr. Tedros said that the purpose of his visit is to see firsthand the ongoing Marburg response and to pledge WHO’s continued support to all responders. He expressed gratitude to Rwanda’s Minister of Health, Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, for the warm welcome, referring to him as “my brother,” and emphasized the importance of collaboration between WHO and Rwanda in managing the outbreak.
During his visit, Dr. Tedros will address concerns about potential travel restrictions. Prior to his visit, he had advised countries against issuing travel advisories for Rwanda, stating that the situation is under control, with no evidence of community transmission. “There is no need for travel bans; Rwanda is managing the outbreak effectively, and we encourage the international community to support their efforts,” he said.
The latest update from the Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC) as of October 18, 2024, reports a total of 62 confirmed cases of Marburg virus, including 15 fatalities and 44 recoveries. Currently, three individuals are in isolation and receiving treatment.
The RBC has administered 1,032 doses of the Marburg vaccine, reflecting a recent increase of 156 doses. Since the outbreak was announced, all new confirmed cases have been contained within a hospital cluster in Kigali, with no evidence of community transmission.
Dr. Tedros is scheduled to meet with health workers, WHO colleagues, and government officials to discuss strategies and review measures being implemented to contain the virus.
The WHO has been collaborating closely with Rwanda’s Ministry of Health to support testing, contact tracing, and case treatment, as well as to strengthen community engagement to prevent further spread of the disease.
The visit coincides with the presence of the CEO of the Sabin Vaccine Institute, who is also in Rwanda to discuss vaccine strategies and support the country’s efforts against the Marburg virus. This highlights the global health community’s commitment to working with Rwanda to address the outbreak and prevent future health emergencies.
The Marburg virus, which causes severe hemorrhagic fever, is known for its high fatality rate. However, with swift and coordinated efforts, outbreaks can be effectively controlled.
Rwanda has been proactive in its response, ensuring that affected areas receive the necessary medical supplies and personnel to manage the situation. To date, over 4,600 cumulative tests have been conducted to identify and isolate cases.
Dr. Tedros’ visit is expected to boost the morale of health workers and reinforce the partnership between the WHO and Rwanda as they strive to end the outbreak.
Authorities continue to encourage the public to practice preventive measures, including avoiding close contact with symptomatic individuals, enhancing hygiene, and refraining from handshakes or close greetings.
