Reports from World Health Organization and national health ministries

Marburg Virus Outbreak in Rwanda: 10 Dead, Over 300 Cases Confirmed, 29 Healthcare Workers Infected

Oct 3, 2024, 06:29 AM

The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed an outbreak of the Marburg virus in Rwanda, which has resulted in 10 deaths and over 300 confirmed cases. The virus, which has a fatality rate of up to 88%, is transmitted to humans from fruit bats and spreads through contact with bodily fluids of infected individuals. Among the confirmed cases, 29 are healthcare workers. The outbreak has not spread to Belgium or Germany, despite initial concerns. Two suspected cases in Germany tested negative for the virus. The WHO, with support from USAID, has delivered over 500 kits of clinical care and infection prevention supplies to Rwanda. Gilead Sciences has donated about 5,000 vials of remdesivir to support the emergency response. The Rwandan government is also preparing to start vaccine and therapeutic clinical trials to combat the virus. The index case in Rwanda died on September 8.