Five patients who had been suspected of contracting Marburg virus disease have tested negative, according to an update from the Minister of State for Health, Dr. Yvan Butera. In a post shared on X, on October 3, Dr. Butera noted that clinical and laboratory evaluations are still underway for additional cases. ALSO READ: Marburg virus: 11 fatalities reported as seven new cases are confirmed He highlighted ongoing efforts to break transmission chains while monitoring 410 identified contacts. Health officials had reported 36 confirmed Marburg cases as of October 2, among the confirmed cases, with 25 people still in isolation and treatment, while the virus had claimed 11 lives. Dr. Butera’s post hinted at the upcoming vaccine and therapeutic clinical trials to protect high-risk groups. He concluded his message with a call for solidarity: “Let’s work together to contain this.” The Ministry of Health announced new measures aimed at curbing the spread of the highly contagious virus. Hospital visits have been suspended for 14 days, and strict hygiene protocols are being reinforced across the country. The public has been urged to limit contact with individuals exhibiting symptoms such as fever, headaches, and muscle pain. ALSO READ: Marburg Virus: Dealing with misconceptions, myths and misinformation Despite these precautions, business activities remain open. However, the government is strongly encouraging the public to adhere to hygiene measures, including frequent handwashing in public spaces. On October 2, the Ministry of Education introduced preventive guidelines for schools, including suspending monthly visits to boarding students as a precautionary step. ALSO READ: What you should know about Marburg virus disease Rwanda’s health authorities have urged anyone experiencing these symptoms to seek immediate assistance by calling the national toll-free line, 114.
