11 Shocking Revelations About the Marburg Virus Disease Outbreak in Rwanda

1. What is Marburg Virus Disease?

Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) is a highly deadly hemorrhagic fever caused by the Marburg virus, which belongs to the same virus family as Ebola.

2. How Did the Outbreak in Rwanda Begin?

The outbreak in Rwanda was first confirmed on September 27, 2024, with cases reported from health facilities in the country.

3. How Many Cases Have Been Reported in Rwanda?

As of October 5, 2024, there have been 46 laboratory-confirmed cases of MVD in Rwanda, with 12 deaths.

4. Who Are the Most Affected Groups?

The majority of cases are among healthcare workers, particularly those in intensive care units in Kigali.

5. What Are the Symptoms of Marburg Virus Disease?

Symptoms include high fever, severe headache, muscle and joint pain, fatigue, loss of appetite, gastrointestinal symptoms, and unexplained bleeding.

6. How Is Marburg Virus Transmitted?

The virus is transmitted through direct contact with broken skin or mucous membranes with the body fluids of someone infected or who recently died from the infection. It can also be contracted through contact with infected animals or contaminated objects.

7. What Measures Are Being Taken to Contain the Outbreak?

The Government of Rwanda is coordinating the response with support from WHO and partners. Contact tracing is underway, with approximately 300 contacts under follow-up. Infection prevention and control measures are being implemented in all health facilities.

8. Are There Any Vaccines or Treatments Available for Marburg Virus Disease?

Currently, there are no licensed vaccines or treatments for Marburg virus disease. However, several candidate vaccines are under development, including one by the Sabin Vaccine Institute.

9. What Role Is the Sabin Vaccine Institute Playing in Addressing the Outbreak?

The Sabin Vaccine Institute has provided its investigational Marburg vaccine to Rwanda to support the ongoing outbreak response. The initial shipment of approximately 700 vaccine doses will be used in a trial targeting frontline workers, including healthcare professionals.

10. How Is the United States Responding to the Outbreak?

The United States has committed nearly $11 million to address urgent health needs in Rwanda and surrounding countries. The CDC has deployed three senior scientists to Rwanda to support its response and has contributed hundreds of investigational vaccine doses and personal protective equipment.

11. What Precautions Are Being Taken for Travelers?

The CDC is screening travelers for Marburg virus, and additional public health entry screenings are being implemented for a small, select group of travelers arriving in the United States from Rwanda.