Rwanda confirmed its first-ever Marburg outbreak five days ago with 26 cases and eight deaths registered as of Sunday September 29, 2024.
To control the further spread of Marburg, the Ministry of Health announced on Sunday night that only one caregiver would be allowed per patient at a time.
All healthcare facilities have been directed to implement a protocol for receiving and providing services to clients exhibiting symptoms of Marburg disease through the strict application of infection prevention and control (IPC) measures.
Other new measures introduced include the banning of wakes and home vigils, locally known as 'Ikiriyo', in cases of death caused by Marburg.
Additionally, funeral services for those who have died from Marburg will be limited to no more than 50 attendees.
The government also stated that in the wake of the MVD outbreak, open-casket viewings will not be permitted in homes, churches, or mosques. These will only be held in designated areas within health facility premises, and with a limited number of people.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Health emphasized that normal business and activities will continue, with a strong focus on reinforcing personal hygiene measures.
The ministry urged the public to avoid close contact with symptomatic individuals. The main symptoms of the virulent disease are high fever, severe headaches, muscle aches, vomiting, and diarrhoea.
"By diligently following these guidelines, each one of us is making an invaluable contribution to protecting ourselves and each other," the Ministry stated, adding that additional measures will be announced in the coming days.
Earlier on Sunday, Health Minister Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana said the government had identified approximately 300 people who had contact with infected individuals, all of whom are being tested to determine whether they are infected.
"We have many contacts, and the number continues to grow as we trace them. Nearly 300 people have been identified so far, and that number may increase because the interactions vary. They might have had casual contact, such as greeting each other, or closer contact, like caring for or being a patient," Minister Nsanzimana added.
The contacts include both those who live with the infected and others from different areas.
The minister urged the public to stay calm and continue their daily activities as usual, reassuring them that the measures being taken to combat the MVD outbreak are promising.
Wycliffe Nyamasege
