**Fatshimetrie: Rwanda on Marburg Virus Alert**
Recently, many U.S. citizens were caught off guard by alarming news: a travel alert issued by the U.S. State Department warning against traveling to Rwanda due to the Marburg virus outbreak. The deadly disease has killed twelve people, mostly health care workers, in recent weeks since its belated declaration last month.
The elevation of the alert level to Level 3, instructing Americans to “reconsider travel to Rwanda,” underscores the seriousness of the situation. This recommendation, just below the maximum level, Level 4, which advises against travel to the country altogether, highlights the serious threat posed by the current outbreak in Rwanda.
To date, the Rwandan Ministry of Health has confirmed 41 cases of Marburg virus, prompting Rwanda to take enhanced measures to limit the spread of the disease. Temperature checks, passenger questionnaires, and hand sanitizing stations have been set up at departure points. Travelers are encouraged to self-monitor for symptoms such as fever to protect their health and the health of others.
Marburg virus, transmitted by fruit bats, belongs to the filovirus family, which also includes the Ebola virus. In response to the outbreak, Rwanda has launched a vaccination campaign using 700 experimental vaccines. However, no officially approved vaccine or antiviral treatment is available at this time. Potential therapies, including blood products and immune therapies, are being evaluated to combat Marburg virus.
To stay informed about the situation in Rwanda, travelers are advised to follow official health communication channels and government advisories. Taking precautions and staying alert to updates about the outbreak is crucial to ensuring everyone’s safety.
In a context where public health is at the centre of all concerns, it is essential that health authorities and travellers work together to stem the spread of the Marburg virus and ensure the protection of the world’s population.