The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has declared the Marburg virus outbreak in Rwanda under control, with “almost zero risk” of cross-border spread.
This announcement follows the initial report of the outbreak in late September.
Soeaking at an online briefing on Thursday, Africa CDC Director , Jean Kaseya stated, “The outbreak in Rwanda is controlled.”
Rwanda has reported 58 cases and 13 fatalities, as confirmed by Health Minister Sabin Nsanzimana.
He noted that 12 individuals have recovered, and over 2,700 people have been tested for the virus.
“We estimated a test fatality rate of about 22 percent and aim to keep this as low as possible,” Nsanzimana added.
Marburg virus, known for its high fatality rate, can cause severe hemorrhagic fever and organ failure.
Kaseya mentioned that Rwanda had recorded no new cases or deaths as of the latest update. “We expect to see Rwanda out of this outbreak very soon,” he said, emphasising the low risk of spread beyond Rwanda’s borders.
He expressed confidence, stating, “(It’s) 95 per cent sure there is zero risk for Rwanda to spread the disease out of Rwanda.”
In response to the outbreak, the U.S. government has advised its citizens to reconsider travel to Rwanda.
Additionally, Kigali announced the postponement of its annual baby gorilla naming ceremony, originally scheduled for October 18, as a precautionary measure.
