From the beginning of this week, the Murburg virus appears to be on the decline in Rwanda, with infection rates decreasing significantly. By Friday, only two individuals were receiving treatment for the virus, marking a hopeful trend. Over the past five days, no new fatalities have been reported, and at least one person has recovered from the virus nearly every day.
The Ministry of Health’s response to the outbreak seems to be yielding positive results. Key preventive measures, including avoiding close contact with symptomatic individuals, enhancing hygiene practices, and discouraging handshakes or close greetings, have contributed to this downward trend.
In light of this progress, some previously enforced restrictions are being eased. The Ministry of Education had earlier prohibited visits to boarding schools and inter-school activities like sports, but starting this Friday, October 25, these activities resumed, provided that health guidelines aimed at eradicating the Marburg virus are followed.
Moreover, the initiative of vaccinating healthcare workers who are at a higher risk of exposure while caring for Marburg patients is underway. To date, 1,410 people have been vaccinated against the virus.
Rwanda’s comprehensive approach to tackling the Murburg outbreak has garnered international attention, with World Health Organization Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus praising the country’s efforts during his recent visit.
“This reflects the work Rwanda has done over the years to strengthen the health system, to develop capacity in critical care and life support that can be deployed both in regular hospital care and emergencies,” he said.
Since the virus first emerged on September 27, it has claimed 15 lives, while 77 individuals have recovered.
Symptoms of the Murburg virus include high fever, severe headache, muscle aches, fatigue, vomiting, and diarrhea.