CDC Issues Level 3 Travel Alert for Rwanda Amid Marburg Concerns

CDC Issues Level 3 Travel Alert for Rwanda Amid Marburg Concerns

The CDC has issued a Level 3 travel advisory for Rwanda and started screening travelers as Marburg virus concerns escalate.

At a Glance

  • The CDC issued a Level 3 travel notice for Rwanda due to a Marburg virus outbreak.
  • Screening of travelers from Rwanda will begin at three major U.S. airports.
  • Rwanda reports 56 confirmed Marburg cases with 12 deaths.
  • No Marburg cases have been confirmed outside Rwanda; the risk is currently considered low in the U.S.
  • Travelers are advised to avoid contact with potential virus sources and monitor their health.

CDC Issues Travel Advisory and Implements Screening Measures

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 3 travel notice for Rwanda, advising against nonessential travel due to an ongoing Marburg virus outbreak. This rare but deadly viral hemorrhagic fever has prompted heightened concern and action from health authorities. In response to the situation, the CDC will begin screening travelers from Rwanda at three major U.S. airports: Chicago O’Hare, New York JFK, and Washington Dulles, starting October 14.

Travelers to Rwanda are strongly encouraged to obtain travel insurance and avoid contact with symptomatic individuals and potential animal sources of the virus. The CDC is providing on-the-ground support in Rwanda, including scientific assistance from its field office, to help contain the outbreak and prevent further spread.

Marburg Virus Outbreak in Rwanda: Current Situation

Rwanda has reported 56 confirmed Marburg cases, with 36 individuals currently in treatment and 12 deaths. The outbreak has affected several districts, including Gatsibo, Nyagatare, Gasabo, Kicukiro, Nyarugenge, Rubavu, and Kamonyi. Many cases involve healthcare workers, highlighting the risks faced by those on the front lines of the outbreak response.

Rwandan health authorities are actively working to identify illnesses, strengthen surveillance, and educate the public about Marburg risks. The country’s health ministry is also screening departing travelers to prevent the spread of the virus beyond its borders.

Understanding Marburg Virus and Prevention Measures

Marburg virus disease is similar to Ebola and spreads through contact with bodily fluids of infected individuals, contaminated objects, or animals such as fruit bats and nonhuman primates. It is not airborne. Symptoms can develop up to three weeks after exposure, starting with a rash and fever. The most dangerous cases can lead to severe bleeding, and this bleeding can have a 90% chance of causing shock and death.

Travelers to Rwanda should take precautions to minimize their risk of exposure. This includes avoiding contact with dead bodies, traditional healers, fruit bats, and nonhuman primates. It is crucial to monitor one’s health for Marburg symptoms while in Rwanda and for 21 days after leaving the country.

U.S. Response and Traveler Guidelines

While there have been no confirmed Marburg cases outside Rwanda, and the current risk to the U.S. is considered low, the CDC is taking proactive measures. Automated texts will be sent to travelers from Rwanda with information and instructions. These efforts aim to identify potential cases early and prevent the spread of the virus to the United States.

Travelers returning from Rwanda should be vigilant about their health and seek immediate medical attention if they develop symptoms consistent with Marburg virus disease. The CDC emphasizes the importance of informing healthcare providers about recent travel history to ensure proper assessment and care.

As the situation continues to evolve, the CDC and other health organizations will monitor the outbreak closely and update travel advisories and guidelines as necessary. The public is encouraged to stay informed through official channels and follow all recommended precautions to protect their health and prevent the potential spread of the virus.

Sources

  1. CDC ups travel advisory for Marburg in Rwanda, announces traveler screening
  2. CDC to start screening travelers from Rwanda to US for Ebola-like Marburg virus amid outbreak
  3. CDC Will Test Travelers From Rwanda for Ebola-Like Marburg Virus
  4. CDC to begin screening travelers from Rwanda for Ebola-like illness
  5. Marburg in Rwanda