On October 12, 2024, Rwanda's Minister of Health, Sabin Nsanzimana, announced that the Marburg virus outbreak, declared on September 27, is now considered "under control." The country has reported 58 confirmed cases and 13 deaths from the disease, which is similar to Ebola.
During a press conference, Nsanzimana highlighted that 12 individuals have recovered from the virus, and over 2,700 tests have been conducted to detect the illness. Efforts are being made to monitor individuals at key entry points, particularly at the Kigali airport.
The Minister emphasized the importance of stopping the virus as soon as possible and stated that Rwandan authorities are collaborating with global partners to manage the outbreak effectively. Jean Kaseya, Director General of the Africa CDC, echoed these sentiments, expressing hope that Rwanda will soon be free from the outbreak.
Both officials criticized the recent travel advisory issued by the United States, which warned citizens against traveling to Rwanda due to the outbreak. Kaseya described the U.S. decision as "unfair" and stressed that it does not reflect the reality of the situation in Rwanda and Africa.
The Marburg virus is a highly infectious hemorrhagic fever virus, with a mortality rate of up to 88%. It is transmitted to humans from fruit bats and can spread through direct contact with bodily fluids. The disease, first identified in 1967, has no specific vaccine or treatment.