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Nairobi, October 10, 2024 — Kenya’s Ministry of Health has raised an alert following an outbreak of Marburg virus disease (MVD) in neighboring Rwanda, amid growing concerns of cross-border transmissions. The Cabinet Secretary for Health, Deborah Barasa, emphasized the urgency of the situation due to the close air and road connections between Kenya and Rwanda, with daily flights and frequent trade routes linking the two nations.
In a statement released from Nairobi on Tuesday evening, Barasa said, “In view of the foregoing, the ministry is instituting urgent measures to forestall importation of cases and subsequent transmission across the country.” While no cases of MVD have been reported in Kenya thus far, heightened surveillance has been implemented at all points of entry, including airports and border crossings, as part of preventive measures.
Marburg virus disease, a severe viral hemorrhagic fever, is highly transmissible and can spread rapidly. The virus causes symptoms such as fever, severe headache, muscle pain, and in more severe cases, internal bleeding. MVD is closely related to the Ebola virus and carries similar transmission risks, making it a significant public health concern.
The Ministry of Health has urged the public to be vigilant and report any cases of unusual fever or bleeding symptoms, especially among individuals who have recently traveled to areas affected by the outbreak. The ministry has also mobilized county health officials to enhance readiness across the country, ensuring any potential cases are quickly identified and isolated to prevent further spread.
“Kenya is keen to safeguard public health and ensure that Kenyans are informed and protected from any potential health threats,” Barasa said, stressing the need for prompt action and awareness as the region navigates this health crisis.
The Marburg virus was first identified in 1967 and has caused multiple outbreaks over the years, with a high fatality rate in some cases. With Rwanda’s outbreak posing a risk to neighboring countries, Kenya’s Ministry of Health is taking all necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the deadly virus.
For now, the public is being encouraged to follow health advisories and report any suspicious symptoms immediately. Health officials are working closely with international health organizations and neighboring countries to monitor the situation and respond to any new developments.
