The Government of Rwanda has officially declared the end of the Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) outbreak after 42 consecutive days with no new cases.
This milestone follows the discharge of the last confirmed patient who tested negative twice for the virus in line with World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines.
The outbreak, which began in mid-September 2024 and was confirmed on September 27, marked Rwanda’s first experience with MVD.
A total of 66 confirmed cases were recorded, with 15 lives lost.
Encouragingly, 51 patients recovered and two individuals were successfully extubated after receiving intensive care, underscoring significant advancements in clinical management.
Minister of Health Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana praised the collaborative efforts that led to containing the outbreak.
“This is an important milestone for Rwanda’s public health system. While we mourn the lives lost, we are encouraged by the progress made. We reached this point due to the dedication of our healthcare workers, the government, and partners whose swift, coordinated action contained the outbreak effectively. We have also successfully identified the virus’s zoonotic origin and will continue strengthening our surveillance systems.”
From the onset, Rwanda’s pandemic response was swift and decisive.
The government activated a 24/7 command centre to oversee surveillance, testing, case management, vaccination, infection prevention, risk communication and community engagement.
These evidence-based interventions, coupled with the tireless work of healthcare workers and support from WHO and other partners, significantly curtailed the spread of the virus.
Cases were halved between weeks two and three, with a 90 per cent decline in subsequent weeks.
Almost 80 per cent of the cases were among frontline health workers who were infected while providing care to patients.
Despite this, Rwanda’s robust response highlighted the importance of committed leadership, partner collaboration, and resilient healthcare systems in tackling public health emergencies.
“Rwanda’s response demonstrates the power of strong leadership, rapid mobilization, and a well-coordinated health system in containing outbreaks, saving lives, and safeguarding communities,” said Dr. Brian Chirombo, WHO Representative in Rwanda.
The deployment of WHO experts and regional first responders played a critical role in the successful containment of the outbreak.
The last confirmed patient tested negative for the virus on November 7, initiating the 42-day countdown to today’s declaration.
WHO remains committed to supporting Rwanda’s Ministry of Health in sustaining surveillance measures to ensure early detection and rapid response to any future flare-ups.
Additionally, WHO will assist in implementing long-term care programs to support survivors and help them overcome any lingering after-effects of the disease.
Marburg Virus Disease, caused by a virus in the same family as Ebola, is highly virulent, with a fatality rate ranging from 24 per cent to 88 per cent.
The virus is transmitted to humans from fruit bats and spreads through direct contact with bodily fluids of infected individuals or contaminated surfaces and materials.
The end of this outbreak underscores Rwanda’s unwavering commitment to strengthening its health systems and preparedness for future health emergencies.
