The Government of Rwanda has officially declared the end of the Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) outbreak that began in September 2024, with no new cases reported over the last 42 days. This follows the confirmation that the last patient tested negative for the virus twice, as per the established protocol for ending such outbreaks. The outbreak, confirmed on 27 September 2024, marked Rwanda's first-ever encounter with the deadly Marburg virus. 

The virus, in the same family as the Ebola virus, caused 66 confirmed cases and 15 deaths. Health workers were hit particularly hard, accounting for almost 80% of the cases. Many were infected while providing care to colleagues and other patients, emphasizing the critical risks healthcare providers face during outbreaks. 

Rwanda’s rapid response to the Marburg outbreak, with significant support from the World Health Organization (WHO) and other partners, played a crucial role in curbing the spread. The government's comprehensive approach included disease surveillance, testing, infection prevention and control, contact tracing, clinical care, and public awareness campaigns. 

These measures were vital in halving the number of cases between the second and third weeks after detection, with cases decreasing by around 90% in the following weeks. 

“The robust response by Rwanda shows how committed leadership, concerted efforts by partners, and a strong health system are crucial in addressing public health emergencies, saving and protecting lives as well as safeguarding the health of individuals and communities,” said Dr. Brian Chirombo, WHO Representative in Rwanda. 

A key aspect of the response was the deployment of WHO experts and a team of national first responders from neighboring countries. Their coordination with Rwanda’s health authorities helped strengthen the outbreak management. 

After the last confirmed case received two consecutive negative PCR results on 7 November, the 42-day countdown began, marking the necessary period to declare the outbreak officially over, in line with WHO guidelines. The Marburg virus, transmitted to humans from fruit bats and through direct contact with infected bodily fluids, surfaces, or materials, is highly fatal, with a mortality rate ranging from 24% to 88%. 

This outbreak, however, had a lower fatality rate, with around 23% of those infected losing their lives. While the outbreak has been declared over, WHO continues to work closely with Rwanda’s Ministry of Health to maintain critical surveillance and response measures in place. 

WHO said that it will also support the implementation of a holistic care program for Marburg survivors, helping them recover from any lingering after-effects of the disease. 

“The end of this outbreak is a significant victory for Rwanda and global public health,” said Dr. Chirombo. 

“It underscores the importance of swift action, strong healthcare systems, and international collaboration in mitigating the impact of infectious disease outbreaks,” Dr. Chirombo added. 

As Rwanda transitions into a phase of vigilance, health authorities remain committed to preventing future outbreaks and ensuring rapid detection and response should the virus resurface. The nation’s successful management of this unprecedented event serves as a model for other countries facing similar challenges.