Rwanda has initiated a vaccination campaign against the Marburg virus, aiming to curb an outbreak that has claimed 12 lives.
Health Minister Sabin Nsanzimana announced the start of vaccinations during a press conference on Sunday.
The vaccination program will prioritize healthcare workers and close contacts of confirmed cases.
“The vaccination is starting today immediately,” Nsanzimana stated.
Rwanda has received shipments of vaccines, including supplies from the Sabin Vaccine Institute.
The first outbreak of Marburg, a viral hemorrhagic fever, was detected in late September, with 46 cases reported.
Marburg virus has a fatality rate of up to 88%, with symptoms such as high fever and severe headaches emerging within seven days of infection.
Later symptoms can include severe nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
The disease is transmitted to humans by fruit bats and spreads through contact with infected bodily fluids.
Neighboring Uganda has experienced several outbreaks in the past.
“We believe that with vaccines, we have a powerful tool to stop the spread of this virus,” Nsanzimana concluded, emphasizing the importance of vaccination in controlling the outbreak.
