In July 2024, Rwanda faced its first-ever outbreak of the Marburg virus in the capital, Kigali. The virus, which is highly contagious and often deadly, affected health workers. On average, Marburg kills around half of those infected, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
1.Early Days of the Outbreak
When the first cases were confirmed, Rwanda’s Health Minister, Sabin Nsanzimana, was attending the UN General Assembly in New York. He remembers being shocked when he received the message: “Marburg had broken out in Kigali.” Hours later, the outbreak was confirmed.
2.Rethinking Epidemic Control
Traditionally, Rwanda responded to epidemics by focusing on preventing the spread from rural areas to cities. However, the Marburg outbreak began in a major city hospital, forcing authorities to rethink their response. Minister Nsanzimana explained, “We need to build the capacity to detect and contain outbreaks wherever they emerge.”
3.Rapid Response Saved Lives
Rwanda quickly took action, limiting the death rate to just 23%. This is the lowest ever recorded for Marburg. Nsanzimana credits the success to a fast, coordinated scientific response and efficient bureaucracy. “We were able to secure vaccines, treatment, and medical equipment in just six days,” he said.
4.The Human Impact
Sadly, 15 people died, mostly experienced doctors and nurses. Menelas Nkeshimana, from the health ministry, described how difficult it was to treat those who knew the deadly nature of the disease. Despite this, he said, “Someone had to be there, someone had to help.”
5.The End of the Outbreak
By November 2024, the outbreak was officially over, and no new cases had been reported for 42 days. WHO representative Brian Chirombo praised Rwanda’s efforts, saying, “This shows how leadership, teamwork, and a strong health system can save lives and protect communities.”
6.Marburg Virus Facts
Marburg is spread by fruit bats and through contact with infected bodily fluids. Early symptoms include a high fever, which can lead to fatal hemorrhaging. While there is no approved vaccine or treatment yet, research is ongoing, and during this outbreak, experimental vaccines were tested.
7.Scientific Approach Led to Success
Rwanda’s health authorities conducted a detailed investigation into the virus’s origins. They found that the virus had a common ancestor with an outbreak from 2014 and was linked to bats in mining areas. This helped them target their response.
8.International Support
The global community was quick to respond, with international partners providing support within 24 hours. Annick Ishimwe, a medical technology manager, noted that trust and collaboration were key. “People trust us because we’ve proven we act in their best interest.”
9.Conclusion
Rwanda’s successful containment of the Marburg outbreak shows the importance of quick, science-driven responses and strong teamwork. Despite the tragic loss of life, the country’s handling of the crisis was a global example of how to manage public health emergencies.
Source:SciDev.Net
