The Ministry of Health in Rwanda has announced that all individuals previously infected with the Marburg virus-a severe and high-fever virus-have now fully recovered.
However, preventive and containment measures remain in place to guard against any future outbreak.
The Ministry’s update on the state of Marburg virus infection was released on November 8, 2024, covering developments from November 1 to 8, 2024.
During this period, the Ministry of Health conducted 1,390 tests, all of which returned negative, indicating no new infections. Despite this progress, the Ministry emphasizes that “preventive and containment efforts are ongoing.”
In recent discussions with the media, the Ministry shared its intensified efforts to monitor individuals who had been in contact with Marburg virus cases and to provide medical care aimed at preventing further fatalities.
Health officials are hopeful that these measures will lead to the permanent eradication of the Marburg virus in Rwanda.
Health Minister Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana explained that the strategies employed include tracing contacts of the initial patient, delivering prompt medical treatment, offering vaccinations, and screening everyone entering through the country’s borders, the Kigali International Airport, and exits from affected areas.
These efforts have been instrumental in containing the virus within identified zones, preventing its spread to other areas.
Dr. Nsanzimana affirmed that the goal of Rwanda’s healthcare authorities is to ensure that no new infections arise.
Nevertheless, the Ministry has advised recovered patients to take specific precautions, such as avoiding unprotected sexual activity and breastfeeding, as the virus can linger in certain body parts for over a year, potentially allowing for transmission.
In a statement to the press on November 4, 2024, Dr. Nsanzimana reiterated the importance of continued monitoring for those who have recovered, as the virus can persist in some areas of the body despite recovery.
He explained, “Recovery means that there is no virus detected in the blood, as confirmed by two separate tests taken 72 hours apart. Thus, we advise recovered patients to abstain from unprotected sexual contact until final tests confirm complete viral clearance.”
The first Marburg virus case in Rwanda was identified on September 27, 2024. By October 3, the virus had affected 37 individuals, resulting in 11 deaths and 5 recoveries.
The Marburg virus presents symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, muscle pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. Anyone experiencing these symptoms is advised to promptly report to health authorities for necessary assistance.