THE U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will begin screening travelers from Rwanda next week in response to an ongoing outbreak of Marburg virus, a deadly hemorrhagic disease similar to Ebola. Starting the week of October 14, all U.S.-bound travelers who have spent time in Rwanda in the previous 21 days will undergo public health entry screenings, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced.
Rwanda has reported 56 confirmed cases of Marburg virus disease, with 12 deaths, according to Rwanda’s Ministry of Health. Thirty-six patients are currently in isolation and receiving treatment. The outbreak has affected healthcare workers, highlighting the virus’s contagious nature. While there are no confirmed cases outside of Rwanda, U.S. health officials stress the importance of early detection to reduce the risk of the virus spreading.
Marburg virus, like Ebola, spreads through contact with bodily fluids from infected individuals or contaminated materials. It is not airborne, making it easier to control than respiratory viruses like COVID-19. Symptoms typically appear within 21 days of exposure and include fever, rash, headache, and muscle pain. In severe cases, internal bleeding, vomiting blood, and organ failure can occur, with a fatality rate of up to 90%.
The CDC has issued a Level 3 Travel Health Notice, urging Americans to reconsider nonessential travel to Rwanda. Additionally, travelers arriving from Rwanda will receive automated health alerts via text message. The U.S. government has allocated nearly $11 million to help Rwanda and neighboring countries control the outbreak, focusing on surveillance, contact tracing, infection control, and airport screening.
There are no approved vaccines or treatments for Marburg virus, but investigational vaccines and therapeutics have been sent to Rwanda as part of emergency efforts. Despite the low risk to the U.S., healthcare providers are advised to be vigilant for potential cases.
Reference: CNN. CDC to start screening travelers from Rwanda to US for Ebola-like Marburg virus amid outbreak. 2024. Available at: https://6abc.com/post/what-is-marburg-virus-cdc-start-screening-travelers-rwanda-us-amid-outbreak-ebola-like-illness/15405418/. Last accessed: October 8, 2024.
Anaya Malik | AMJ
