In July 2024, Rwanda faced its first-ever Marburg virus outbreak in Kigali. With a mortality rate of only 23%, the country’s swift response, tied to effective collaboration with the WHO and local authorities, facilitated the containment of the outbreak. Health Minister Sabin Nsanzimana emphasized the importance of rapid action and scientific investigation in managing the crisis. The outbreak underscored the need for dynamic epidemic response strategies grounded in real-time data and community cooperation.
In July 2024, Rwanda experienced its first Marburg virus outbreak, primarily affecting health workers in Kigali, which significantly tested the nation’s health infrastructure. The Marburg virus, known for its high mortality rate of approximately fifty percent, posed a severe challenge as cases emerged from a leading referral hospital. Health Minister Sabin Nsanzimana was informed about the outbreak while attending the UN General Assembly in New York, initially leading him to doubt the seriousness of the situation until confirmations came through.
This outbreak contradicted the typical understanding of epidemic control, which presumes that outbreaks typically start in rural regions. Nsanzimana explained that this outbreak originated in an urban hospital, prompting health officials to collaborate with the World Health Organization (WHO) to revise their outbreak response protocols. His comments emphasized the need for increased capacity to detect and manage outbreaks at their source, regardless of location.
Due to its effective response, Rwanda managed to limit the Marburg death rate to 23%, the lowest recorded for such outbreaks globally. The success was attributed to a prompt scientific response and a streamlined bureaucratic process that allowed for swift action. Nsanzimana highlighted that with coordinated teamwork across institutions, countries could rapidly accomplish what typically takes much longer in terms of securing essential medical supplies and treatments.
Despite the relatively low death rate, the outbreak claimed the lives of fifteen people, primarily experienced healthcare workers. Menelas Nkeshimana, head of the health workforce development department, reflected on the emotional toll of treating individuals who fully comprehended the gravity of the Marburg infection. Even in dire circumstances, the determination to care for patients remained strong among the healthcare providers.
In November 2024, the WHO officially declared the outbreak over. Brian Chirombo, the WHO representative in Rwanda, commended the nation’s robust response, attributing it to committed leadership, effective partnerships, and the strength of the health system that protected public health. Of the confirmed 66 cases, 51 recovered, and there were no new cases for 42 consecutive days.
Health officials conducted extensive scientific investigations to trace the virus’s origins, revealing its common ancestry with a 2014 outbreak. Using genomic sequencing, they determined that bats from mining areas were the source, which allowed for a targeted response. Currently, no vaccines specifically for Marburg exist, but ongoing trials during the outbreak were instrumental in exploring treatment strategies.
To ensure a coordinated response, health authorities established a command post aligned with their pandemic response plan, integrating various sectors like health, local government, and security. Annick Ishimwe, a division manager, highlighted the importance of swift decision-making and reduced bureaucratic hurdles during this critical period. Furthermore, global collaboration was pivotal, with international partners ready to assist within hours of the outbreak being reported.
Rwanda’s institutional credibility played a key role in the response, as trust in health authorities facilitated quick action and cooperation. The country has consistently demonstrated its commitment to public health, making it a reliable partner in health endeavors. Rwandan health officials stressed that proactive and unified approaches are crucial in successfully managing health emergencies like the Marburg outbreak.
The Marburg virus is a highly infectious disease associated with high mortality rates, similar to Ebola virus. As the first recorded case in Rwanda, the outbreak in Kigali not only required an effective health response but also necessitated a reexamination of existing epidemic control measures. The timing and location of the outbreak presented unique challenges that required innovative solutions from health authorities and a cooperative effort with global health partners. The Ministry of Health in Rwanda had to quickly adapt its conventional responses to outbreaks, which traditionally centered on preventing rural-to-urban transmission. The need for up-to-date scientific data and rapid response mechanisms highlighted the critical role of infrastructure and timely communication in managing public health crises. Research and genomic analysis showcased the need for fast-tracked medical solutions during outbreaks. Additionally, a collaborative approach within different sectors of government and support from international health organizations played a significant role in limiting the outbreak’s spread and reducing mortality. Much of Rwanda’s success can be attributed to its past experiences with health crises, which fostered a sense of trust and readiness to act swiftly in the event of an outbreak. The effective management of the Marburg outbreak marks a significant milestone in the history of public health in Rwanda.
Rwanda’s management of the Marburg virus outbreak in July 2024 demonstrates significant progress in the nation’s health response capacity. By adopting adaptive strategies and fostering quick collaboration among various sectors, the country effectively managed to contain the outbreak with minimal fatalities. The experience has provided valuable lessons on outbreak prevention, emphasizing the importance of local capacity, scientific partnerships, and community trust in managing public health emergencies.
Original Source: www.news-medical.net
