The first case detected of the Marburg Virus (MVD) in Rwanda was announced on 27 September 2024. As of 7 October 2024, the Rwandan government has reported 56 confirmed cases of the virus, with 12 of those cases reported dead, 8 in recovery, and 36 in isolation. 

The World Health Organisation (WHO), in partnership with the Rwandese government, states that controlling the outbreak of MVD relies on a number of interventions, that is, isolation and case management, including surveillance of active cases, contact tracing, optimal laboratory services, prompt safe and dignified burial. They have also increased awareness of the disease among members of the community and especially among the healthcare communities. 

 The Ministry of Health Rwanda has put in place prevention measures such as:

• Avoid close contact with symptomatic individuals.
• Urging those who are experiencing MVD symptoms to avoid public places and crowds and seek medical help.
• Refrain from handshaking, hugging, and crowded places.
• Avoid handling the bodies of deceased individuals from MVD.
• Wear protective equipment when caring for patients.
• Maintain good hygiene by washing hands frequently and following health authority guidelines.

The Marburg Virus is described as a highly virulent disease that can cause hemorrhagic fever and is clinically similar to Ebola diseases. People are initially infected with Marburg virus when they come into close contact with Rousettus bats, a type of fruit bat that can carry the Marburg virus and are often found in mines or caves. Marburg virus spreads between people via direct contact (through broken skin or mucous membranes) with the blood, secretions, organs or other bodily fluids of infected people and with surfaces and materials (e.g. bedding, clothing) contaminated with these fluids. Healthcare workers have previously been infected while treating patients with suspected or confirmed MVD. Burial ceremonies that involve direct contact with the body of the deceased can also contribute to the transmission of the Marburg virus.

According to the WHO, the incubation period for the Marburg Virus is 21 days. The illness caused by this highly virulent virus begins abruptly, with high fever, severe headache, and severe malaise. Severe watery diarrhoea, abdominal pain and cramping, nausea and vomiting can begin on the third day. Although not all cases present with haemorrhagic signs, severe hemorrhagic manifestations may appear between five and seven days from symptom onset, and fatal cases usually have some form of bleeding, often from multiple areas. In fatal cases, death occurs most often between eight and nine days after symptom onset, usually preceded by severe blood loss and shock. It’s important to note that there is currently no available treatment or vaccine for MVD, making prevention the best defence.

Based on the current risk assessment, WHO advises against any travel and trade restrictions with Rwanda.