30 Sep 2024 | 03:23 PM UTC
Rwanda: Increased Marburg virus activity prompts some health measures in late September
Health authorities are implementing some Marburg virus measures due to increased disease activity as of Sept. 30.
Health authorities have, as of Sept. 30, implemented the following guidelines due to the increased activity of the Marburg virus:
Visits to hospitals are prohibited for the next 14 days.
Home vigils, known as Ikiriyo, are forbidden in the event of a death caused by the virus.
Funerals will be limited to 50 individuals.
Open-coffin viewings will only be allowed at specific areas of health facilities with a limited number of people and will not be permitted at homes, churches, or mosques.
Health facilities have also implemented specific protocols for those presenting Marburg-related symptoms.
The WHO is also increasing health surveillance at the land borders to prevent further spread. Additional measures are expected in the coming days. As of Sept. 29, Rwanda has recorded 26 confirmed cases and eight deaths across seven of the country's 30 districts.
The US Embassy in Rwanda issued a health alert on Sept. 28, noting that it was authorizing work from home for its employees from Sept. 30-Oct. 4 in response to the outbreak. It also announced that in-person services at the embassy would be suspended, including visa interviews and citizen services.
Local officials could implement localized curfews, air and cross-border restrictions, and additional restrictive measures at short notice in response to health assessments. Residents affected by restrictions could protest the government's response. Additional disruptions to foreign embassy operations are possible.
Abide by all official directives. Observe strict health precautions, including frequent handwashing with soap and water or with hand sanitizer. Avoid visiting any locations that require prolonged exposure to mines or caves that may be inhabited by fruit bats. Avoid contact with animals and items that may have come in contact with an infected person's blood or bodily fluids. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations. Avoid all protests.
