The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a travel warning for Rwanda following an outbreak of the deadly Marburg virus, which has so far claimed 11 lives.

Since the virus was first confirmed in the country in September, a total of 36 cases have been reported, according to data from Rwanda's Ministry of Health. Most of the fatalities have occurred among healthcare workers in the capital city, Kigali.

Authorities in Rwanda are working to contain the outbreak, with Assistant Health Minister Yvan Butera stating that another 410 people are believed to have come into contact with infected individuals. In response to the outbreak, the WHO has advised against travel to Rwanda, although no official travel bans have been imposed.

High Fatality Rates and Lack of Treatment

Marburg virus is a highly fatal hemorrhagic fever, similar to Ebola, with case fatality rates ranging from 24% to 88%, depending on the strain and level of care. There is currently no proven treatment for the virus, although research is ongoing into therapies including blood products, immune treatments, and drug therapies.

The virus is transmitted through direct contact with infected individuals or their bodily fluids. Healthcare workers, in particular, are at high risk, as shown by the deaths reported in Kigali.

Travel Warnings and Precautions

While the WHO has advised against travel to Rwanda, this remains a recommendation rather than an enforced ban. The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has raised its travel advisory to Level 2, urging travelers to exercise enhanced precautions. The CDC advises travelers to purchase comprehensive travel insurance and avoid contact with sick individuals displaying Marburg symptoms, such as fever, chills, headache, muscle pain, and unexplained bleeding.

For those traveling to Rwanda, the CDC also recommends avoiding healthcare facilities in outbreak areas unless seeking urgent medical care. Travelers returning from affected areas are advised to monitor their health for 21 days and seek medical attention immediately if symptoms of Marburg arise.

UK Foreign Office Response

The UK Foreign Office has not yet issued a formal warning against travel to Rwanda, but it has acknowledged the outbreak on its website. The office advises travelers to stay informed through local authorities and encourages businesses operating in outbreak zones to register with the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) returning workers scheme. This scheme helps monitor the health of workers returning from affected regions by implementing screening protocols and advance notifications.

Efforts are underway in Rwanda to prevent the further spread of the Marburg virus, but international health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely. Travelers are urged to stay updated on the evolving outbreak and take all necessary precautions. (ILKHA)