The Ministry of Health has announced guidelines for the prevention of the spread of Marburg virus in Rwanda, as two new people were killed by the disease on Sunday, bringing the total death toll to eight. The guidelines were announced on Sunday, September 29, before the Ministry said 26 cases had been reported since September 27, with two new people killed by the disease, bringing the total death toll to eight. According to the Ministry, business and other daily activities will continue. Business and regular activities will continue, with added emphasis on reinforcing personal hygiene practice

The Ministry of Health has announced guidelines for the prevention of the spread of Marburg virus in Rwanda, as two new people were killed by the disease on Sunday, bringing the total death toll to eight.

The guidelines were announced on Sunday, September 29, before the Ministry said 26 cases had been reported since September 27, with two new people killed by the disease, bringing the total death toll to eight.

According to the Ministry, business and other daily activities will continue. Business and regular activities will continue, with added emphasis on reinforcing personal hygiene practices.

The public is advised to avoid contact with individuals showing symptoms of the virus, which include high fever, severe headaches, muscle aches, vomiting, and diarrhea.

"Visits to hospitalized patients are not permitted for the next 14 days,” the ministry said, adding that only one caregiver is allowed per patient at a time.

All healthcare facilities were ordered to apply infection prevention and control measures when receiving and providing care to individuals who exhibit symptoms.

Wakes and home vigils (ikiriyo) are not allowed in the case of a death linked to the Marburg virus to avoid gatherings that may increase the risk of spreading the virus.

"Funeral services where the cause of death was determined to be Marburg will be attended by no more than 50 people,” the Ministry said.

Open-casket viewings are not permitted in homes, churches, or mosques, but will only take place in designated areas within health facilities with a limited number of people.

"By diligently following these guidelines, each one of us is making an invaluable contribution to protecting ourselves and each other. Additional measures will be announced in the coming days,” the Ministry said.

Minister of Health Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, during a press conference on Sunday, said they were monitoring over 300 people identified as contacts of the confirmed cases.

The symptoms of the Marburg virus include high fever, severe headaches, muscle aches, vomiting, and diarrhea.

“If you notice symptoms, quickly go to your nearest health facility or call 114,” the Ministry of Health said.

The health authorities advised the general public to avoid close contact with symptomatic people and enhance hygiene as prevention measures.

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