The Ministry of Health has released new guidelines aimed at preventing the spread of the Marburg virus in Rwanda.

The new guidelines were announced on Sunday, September 29, shortly before the Ministry said two people had been killed by the hemorrhagic disease, bring the total toll to eight.

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26 cases have been reported since September 27, when the first-ever Marburg outbreak was confirmed in Rwanda.

Minister of Health Dr Sabin Nsanzimana said they were monitoring over 300 people identified as contacts of the confirmed cases.

The new guidelines, which include suspension of hospital visits, focus on maintaining personal hygiene and limiting contact with individuals showing Marburg virus symptoms. However, business activities will continue.

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New guidelines

According to the Ministry, business and other daily activities will continue.

Business and regular activities will continue, but with added emphasis on reinforcing personal hygiene practices.

The public is advised to avoid contact with individuals showing symptoms of the virus. The symptoms are high fever, severe headache, muscle aches, vomiting, and diarrhea.

"Visits to hospitalized patients are not permitted for the next 14 days,” the ministry said, adding that only one caregiver is allowed per patient at a time.

All healthcare facilities were ordered to apply infection prevention and control measures when receiving and providing care to individuals who exhibit the symptoms.

Funeral services for Marburg victims

Wakes and home vigils (ikiriyo) are not allowed in the case of a death linked to the Marburg virus to avoid gatherings that may increase the risk of spreading the virus.

"Funeral services where the cause of death was determined to be Marburg will be attended by no more than 50 people,” the Ministry said.

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Open-casket viewings are not permitted in homes, churches, or mosques.

These will only take place in designated areas within health facilities with a limited number of people.

"By diligently following these guidelines, each one of us is making an invaluable contribution to protecting ourselves and each other. Additional measures will be announced in the coming days,” the Ministry said.

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Dr Nsanzimana said health authorities had stepped up efforts to contain the infectious disease, including by tracing contacts of the confirmed cases, testing, and treatment.

The Ministry of Health has established a toll-free hotline, 114, for reporting suspected cases and seeking guidance.