Rwanda declared Marburg-free after successful containment of deadly virus

Rwanda has officially been declared Marburg-free, marking the end of the Marburg virus disease (MVD) outbreak.

This milestone follows 42 consecutive days without new cases, in line with World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines.

In a statement released on Friday, Rwanda’s Minister of Health, Dr Sabin Nsanzimana, emphasised the significance of this milestone.

"This is a proud moment for Rwanda's public health system. Though we mourn the lives lost, we commend the dedication of healthcare workers, the government, and our partners. Their seamless collaboration enabled us to identify the virus's zoonotic origin and strengthen our surveillance systems to prevent future outbreaks," the minister said.

The outbreak, which began in mid-September 2024, affected 66 individuals.

While 15 lives were lost, 51 patients recovered, including two who were successfully extubated after intensive care — a significant advancement in clinical care for the disease.

From the start, Rwanda activated a comprehensive pandemic response plan.

A 24/7 command centre was established to oversee key interventions such as surveillance, testing, case management, vaccination, and community engagement.

Evidence-based approach

These coordinated efforts ensured an evidence-based approach that effectively controlled the outbreak.

The successful containment of the virus highlights Rwanda’s commitment to building resilient health systems and preparing for future public health emergencies.

The African Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has confirmed the successful containment of the MVD outbreak in Rwanda.

As of November 8, 2024, when the last patient was discharged, there have been no new MVD-positive cases reported since October 30.

In total, Rwanda recorded 66 cases and 15 deaths during the outbreak.

Ngashi Ngongo, a professor of epidemiology and principal advisor to the Africa CDC’s director-general, announced at a press conference that the 42-day countdown to officially declare the outbreak over would conclude tomorrow (December 21, 2024).

"This achievement is a testament to the swift and coordinated response led by Rwanda’s Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Africa CDC and key partners," Ngongo stated.

The confirmation further underscores the importance of timely and effective cooperation in addressing public health emergencies.

The WHO recommends several measures to prevent and control the spread of the Marburg virus disease. These include wearing gloves and protective clothing, particularly when visiting or working in caves or mines inhabited by fruit bats, and thoroughly cooking all animal products before consumption.

Communities are encouraged to avoid close physical contact with infected individuals and ensure proper education on the disease and outbreak containment measures.

Safe burial practices are crucial to prevent further transmission from deceased individuals.

It is also essential to identify and monitor people who may have been in contact with infected patients, isolate the sick from the healthy, and provide appropriate care to those confirmed to have the disease.

Maintaining good hygiene and a clean environment remains a cornerstone of disease prevention.