11 Oct 2024 | 01:52 PM UTC
Rwanda: New measures aimed at containing the Marburg virus were announced in early October /update 2
Authorities in Rwanda prohibit travel for 21 days for outbound travelers in contact with Marburg-infected individuals as of Oct. 9.
Officials in Rwanda continue to announce new measures to contain the spread of the Marburg virus as of Oct. 11. Health authorities indicated on Oct. 9 that departing travelers who had been in contact with a confirmed Marburg case or were showing disease symptoms will be prohibited from traveling for 21 days. No quarantine measures have been announced.
The following guidelines previously implemented remain in place:
Officials have set up routine temperature checks and enhanced hygiene protocols at airports, border crossings, and spaces such as restaurants, hotels, and tourism sites.
Outbound travelers are required to fill out a health questionnaire. For further information, click here.
Visits to hospitals are prohibited.
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 are only 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.
In response to the outbreak, the US Embassy in Rwanda has authorized work from home for its employees through at least Oct. 11. It also announced that in-person services at the embassy, including visa interviews and citizen services, would be suspended. The US amended its travel advisory on Oct. 7, recommending its citizens reconsider travel to Rwanda.
As of Oct. 10, Rwanda has recorded 58 confirmed cases and 13 deaths across at least seven of the country's 30 districts: Gasabo, Kicukiro, Nyarugenge (Kigali Province), Gatsibo and Nyagatare (Eastern Province), Rubavu (Western Province), and Kamonyi (Southern Province).
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.
