Since Rwanda’s first-ever Marburg virus disease outbreak was declared on 27 September, tourists headed for the country in central Africa may have heightened concerns about the safety of their travel plans.
As of 7 October, figures from the Ministry of Health show 12 deaths from 56 confirmed cases of Marbug virus in Rwanda.
Marburg virus, a disease that can cause fatal haemorrhagic fever, is transmitted to humans from fruit bats and has a fatality rate as high as 88 per cent.
The highly contagious virus is most commonly spread in healthcare settings through close and direct contact with body fluids or an infected case.
Common symptoms include a fever, severe headaches, muscle ache, vomiting and diarrhoea and can appear up to 21 days from the date of exposure.
Here’s everything prospective travellers need to know to safely visit Rwanda amid the Marburg virus outbreak.
What is Foreign Office travel advice for Rwanda?
Generally, the UK Foreign Office does not advise against travel to Rwanda.
The FCDO said on 1 October: “The Rwandan Ministry of Health has issued a public update that Marburg virus disease has been confirmed in health facilities in the country. We understand it is present in hospitals in Kigali. Investigations are being carried out to determine the origin of the infection.
“The Rwandan Ministry of Health has issued advice on avoiding close contact with symptomatic people, practising enhanced hygiene measures, and the symptoms of Marburg virus disease to look out for.”
What does the World Health Organisation (WHO) say?
WHO representative Dr Brian Chirombo said: “WHO is actively collaborating with Rwanda Health to strengthen outbreak containment measures, support research into vaccines and therapeutics and provide the necessary supplies and expertise to end the Marburg outbreak.”
What preventative measures are being taken?
The Rwandan Ministry of Health said that all passengers departing the country will be asked to complete a “short symptom screening questionnaire with RBC staff to ensure their wellbeing and the safety of others”.
A public notice from the Rwanda Development Board on 4 October said that Rwanda remains open to travellers.
“There are currently no travel restrictions in place, and all key tourist destinations, including Volcanoes National Park, Akagera National Park,…
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