Rwanda: Rift Valley Fever outbreak in Eastern province

Event

Health officials had confirmed an outbreak of Rift Valley Fever in Ngoma, Kirehe, Rwamagana, and Kayonza districts of Eastern province as of Sunday, June 16. Although no cases involving humans have been reported as of mid-June, at least 99 cattle deaths have been confirmed in recent weeks. According to local sources, authorities have imposed a ban on transporting cattle to hinder further spread of the disease.

Context

Rift Valley Fever is a viral hemorrhagic fever that is generally contracted via contact with the carcasses of infected animals, but can also be transmitted through ticks and biting midges. Symptoms generally include hemorrhagic fever, headaches, and muscle pains, while more severe symptoms include loss of sight and brain inflammation, which can cause seizures and headaches. Fatalities occur in less than 1 percent of infected individuals.

Advice

Individuals present in affected areas are advised to be extremely vigilant and to take measures to protect themselves from insect bites (e.g. by wearing covering clothing, using insect repellent, and sleeping under mosquito netting or in an air-conditioned room). Those present in affected areas should also avoid all contact with farm animals. Individuals exhibiting any of the above symptoms should seek immediate medical attention.