The following information is from CDC.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed that the Republic of Rwanda’s Ministry of Health has reported 26 cases of Marburg virus disease, including eight fatalities. The CDC is in direct communication with health officials in Rwanda and neighboring countries to monitor and respond to the outbreak.
Currently, no Marburg virus cases related to this outbreak have been reported in the United States. According to the CDC, the anticipated risk to the general population in the US is low. The CDC is actively working with Rwanda’s health officials and has offered additional support to help address the outbreak.
The CDC has maintained a significant presence in Rwanda since establishing an office there in 2002. Over the years, the CDC has collaborated closely with the Rwandan government to strengthen health systems. This work focuses on preventing and controlling communicable diseases.
A key part of this collaboration is the Field Epidemiology Training Program (FETP). The program trains scientists to better investigate and manage disease outbreaks. The CDC has also worked with Rwanda on initiatives such as the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief and the President’s Malaria Initiative. These efforts have helped build Rwanda’s public health capabilities.
CDC’s response to the current outbreak includes deploying subject matter experts to assist with Rwanda’s investigation and response efforts. The team brings experience from managing outbreaks of Marburg and similar diseases in other countries. Their support will focus on:
- Epidemiology and contact tracing to track and manage the spread of the virus.
- Laboratory testing to identify and confirm cases.
- Strengthening disease detection and control, particularly along borders.
- Enhancing infection prevention measures in hospitals and healthcare settings.
Marburg virus is a rare and severe hemorrhagic fever similar to Ebola. It originates from certain types of bats found in various African countries. The virus can cause deadly infections in humans and spreads through:
- Direct contact with bodily fluids of infected individuals.
- Contact with surfaces and materials contaminated with these fluids.
Healthcare workers in outbreak areas are at an increased risk of infection. Symptoms can appear suddenly and may include fever, rash, and severe bleeding. For more information about the virus, visit the CDC’s page on About Marburg Disease.
The CDC continues to work closely with the US Ambassador in Rwanda and the Rwandan Ministry of Health. Their ongoing coordination and previous investments in Rwanda’s health infrastructure are key to managing this outbreak.
For more details, read the full CDC statement on the Marburg virus cases in Rwanda here.