Rwanda Confirms First Cases of Marburg Viral Disease

Rwanda Confirms First Cases of Marburg Viral Disease

Rwanda’s health ministry announced on Friday that the country has confirmed its first cases of Marburg disease, a severe viral hemorrhagic fever. The ministry is currently investigating the source of the infection and has isolated the affected individuals for treatment. Although specific numbers were not provided, officials stated that there are only a few confirmed cases.

Marburg disease, caused by a virus related to Ebola, has a high fatality rate, reaching up to 88%. It is transmitted to humans through contact with fruit bats and spreads through bodily fluids of infected individuals. The symptoms of the disease include high fever, severe headaches, vomiting, muscle aches, and stomach pains.

The health ministry urged the public to remain vigilant and follow health guidelines to prevent the spread of the virus. Rwanda has taken swift action to contain the situation, and health officials are monitoring the situation closely.

In recent years, neighboring countries have also reported cases of Marburg. Tanzania had confirmed cases in 2023, and Uganda experienced an outbreak in 2017. The Rwandan government is coordinating with regional health organizations to enhance surveillance and response measures.

As the situation develops, authorities are emphasizing the importance of community awareness and health education to minimize the risk of transmission. They are also encouraging anyone with symptoms or who may have been in contact with infected individuals to seek medical attention promptly.

Source: Reuters