“ Marburg virus outbreak in Rwanda brought under control »: statement this October 10, 2024 from the Director General of the Africa CDC, Jean Kaseya. Rwanda has recorded 13 deaths and 58 confirmed cases according to the latest official figures concerning this virus close to Ebola which causes hemorrhagic fever, and which has pushed the United States to advise its nationals against traveling to Rwanda. In its capital, no travel restrictions linked to the epidemic but some precautionary measures in certain public places, such as the Nyabugogo bus station.
2 mins
With our correspondent in Kigali, Lucie Mouillaud
Under a bus shelter, Nzayisenga waits patiently to leave for the west of the Rwanda. Amid the crowds of travelers, the freight carrier is trying to take some precautions since the first cases of the Marburg virus in the country. “ It was a shock to know that we were facing a new epidemiche says. But we can’t do anything but accept reality “.
At one of the entrances to the bus station, passers-by now parade in front of the few taps installed to wash their hands. Among them, Félix, who has just arrived in Kigali. “ I washed my hands as soon as I got herehe assures. Even before taking my bus, I had washed my hands, and I would do it again when I arrived at my destination, to avoid transmission “.
“ Awareness must continue »
According to several bus companies, no preventive measures are currently necessary in vehicles.
Kelia, a street seller, fears future restrictions: “ We heard that it was a serious epidemic that killed doctors, even though they are the ones who treat us. Awareness must continue. »
According to the Ministry of Health, nearly 80% of confirmed cases concern healthcare workers. But for two consecutive days, no new positive tests have been recorded in the country.
Also readRwanda begins vaccination campaign against Marburg virus
As a reminder, the Marburg virus is part of the filovirus family, to which the Ebola virus also belongs, which has already caused several deadly epidemics in Africa. Animals can transmit it to primates living near them, including humans. Human-to-human transmission then occurs through contact with blood or other bodily fluids.