Rwanda declares Marburg Virus outbreak over

The Government of Rwanda officially declared the Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) outbreak over today, following 42 days with no new cases reported since the last patient tested negative for the virus twice, meeting the standard criteria for ending such outbreaks.

The outbreak, confirmed on September 27, 2024, was the first of its kind in Rwanda. It resulted in 66 confirmed cases and 15 deaths, with nearly 80% of infections occurring among healthcare workers providing care to colleagues and patients.

Rwanda’s health authorities, supported by the World Health Organization (WHO) and other partners, launched an extensive response to contain the virus and save lives. Efforts included enhanced disease surveillance, testing, infection prevention measures, contact tracing, clinical care, and public awareness campaigns. These measures led to a rapid decline in cases, with infections halving within two weeks of detection and falling by approximately 90% thereafter.

“This robust response by Rwanda demonstrates how committed leadership, collaboration with partners, and a resilient health system are key to managing public health emergencies, protecting lives, and safeguarding communities,” said Dr. Brian Chirombo, WHO Representative in Rwanda.

WHO experts, alongside a team of national first responders from neighboring countries, played a critical role in bolstering Rwanda’s outbreak response. The final patient received their second negative PCR test result on November 7, marking the start of the 42-day countdown to the official declaration of the outbreak’s end, in accordance with WHO protocols.

To prevent future outbreaks, WHO continues to collaborate with Rwanda’s health authorities, maintaining essential measures to ensure early detection and rapid response to potential flare-ups. The organization is also supporting the Ministry of Health in providing comprehensive care to MVD survivors to address any lingering health effects.

Marburg Virus, a highly virulent pathogen from the same family as the Ebola virus, has a fatality rate ranging from 24% to 88%. In this outbreak, the fatality rate was approximately 23%, among the lower ranges for the disease. The virus is transmitted to humans through contact with fruit bats and spreads among people via direct contact with bodily fluids, contaminated surfaces, and materials.

With the outbreak officially over, Rwanda sets an example of effective crisis management, demonstrating the importance of coordinated efforts and a strong healthcare system in responding to global health threats.