World Health Organization (WHO) reports or Rwandan Health Ministry announcements

Rwanda Responds Swiftly to Marburg Outbreak with U.S. Vaccine Aid After 11 Deaths, 700 Doses Delivered

Oct 6, 2024, 03:41 PM

Rwanda is actively responding to its first Marburg virus outbreak, with swift actions to contain the disease. The U.S. has shipped Marburg vaccines to Rwanda following the deaths of 11 people. The Sabin vaccine has delivered 700 doses of the cAd-3 Marburg vaccine to Rwanda, targeting high-risk groups including healthcare workers. The Secretary of State for Rwanda Health, Yvan Butera, praised health workers at mobile clinics for their efforts. The rapid vaccination rollout, just over a week after the outbreak was announced, is seen as a crucial step in managing the epidemic. Marburg virus, a highly contagious and deadly disease, requires aggressive and well-coordinated responses to prevent further spread. Notably, 80% of those infected are healthcare professionals.