Fatshimetrie
The fight against the Marburg Virus Disease outbreak has reached a crucial milestone with the Government of Rwanda announcing the end of the outbreak, with no new cases reported in the last 42 days. This declaration has been hailed as a major victory, the first of its kind in Rwanda against this dreaded virus.
Initially confirmed on 27 September 2024, the outbreak has affected 66 people, sadly causing the loss of 15 lives. A notable feature of this outbreak has been the prevalence among health workers, with nearly 80% of cases involving workers infected while caring for their colleagues and patients.
The rapid and coordinated response of the Rwandan health authorities, supported by the World Health Organization (WHO) and partners, has been crucial in stemming the spread of the virus. Measures ranging from epidemiological surveillance, testing and infection prevention, to contact tracing and clinical care were put in place. This mobilization resulted in a halving of the number of cases between the second and third weeks after the outbreak was detected, and a subsequent decrease of about 90%.
Dr Brian Chirombo, WHO Representative in Rwanda, stressed the importance of a robust and concerted response, highlighting the crucial role of committed leadership, collaboration with partners and a strong health system in addressing public health emergencies and protecting the lives and health of individuals and communities.
The intervention of WHO experts, a team of national first responders from other countries in the region and the strong mobilization of national efforts were instrumental in strengthening the response to the outbreak. The last confirmed case received his second negative PCR test result on 7 November, starting the 42-day countdown to declaring the end of the outbreak, in line with WHO recommendations.
While this Marburg virus disease outbreak has now ended, WHO continues to work closely with national authorities to maintain critical measures to ensure rapid detection and effective response in the event of a resurgence of the virus. WHO is also committed to supporting the Ministry of Health in implementing a comprehensive care programme for Marburg virus disease survivors, helping them overcome possible side effects.
It is important to remember that the Marburg virus, which is related to the Ebola virus, is highly virulent, with a mortality rate ranging from 24% to 88%. In this outbreak, the mortality rate has been relatively low, at around 23%.. This virus is transmitted to humans from fruit bats and spreads among humans through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected individuals.
The end of the Marburg Virus Disease outbreak in Rwanda is an example of the power of international collaboration, coordinated efforts, and the commitment of health authorities and frontline workers. It is a victory for public health and a reminder of the importance of remaining vigilant in the face of emerging threats to global health.