U.S. health officials are taking action in response to the ongoing outbreak of the Marburg virus in Rwanda. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will begin screening travelers entering the U.S. from Rwanda, starting the week of October 14. This follows the confirmation of 56 cases in Rwanda, 12 of which have resulted in death, according to Rwanda’s Ministry of Health. The Marburg virus is a severe hemorrhagic fever that can spread through contact with animals or people, leading to symptoms like fever, rash, and severe bleeding.
While there are no reported cases in the U.S., the CDC has issued a Level 3 Travel Health Notice, urging travelers to reconsider nonessential trips to Rwanda. Infected individuals may exhibit symptoms between two to 21 days after exposure, and currently, there is no vaccine or specific treatment available.
The CDC advises that anyone who develops symptoms should immediately self-isolate and notify health authorities for guidance. Efforts are underway in Rwanda to contain the outbreak, with local health authorities conducting investigations, strengthening surveillance, and educating communities about the risks posed by the virus.