Marburg Virus Death Toll Hits 12 as Rwanda Starts Vaccine Trials

As the Marburg virus death toll in Rwanda climbs to 12, the country has initiated vaccine trials in an effort to contain the outbreak and protect public health.

Health authorities in Rwanda have initiated a study to test a vaccine against Marburg.

The U.S. nonprofit organization, Sabin Vaccine Institute, announced that it has “entered into a clinical trial agreement with the Rwanda Biomedical Centre.”

The East African nation announced a Marburg outbreak on September 27th.

On Sunday, October 6th, the Rwandan Minister of Health outlined how the trial will be conducted.

“The vaccination program is beginning, with a focus on the most vulnerable and exposed individuals. This includes healthcare workers in treatment centers, hospitals, ICUs (intensive care units), emergency departments, as well as those who have been in close contact with confirmed cases,” said Sabin Nsanzimana.

According to the approved protocol, around 700 high-risk adults will receive doses at six clinical trial locations.

READ ALSO: Rwanda: Marburg Virus Claims Several Lives as WHO Prepares to Send Medical Aid

No authorized vaccine or treatment exists for Marburg.

The virus is thought to have originated in fruit bats and can spread among people through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected individuals or contaminated surfaces.

Emmanuel, who operates a motor taxi, is concerned: “We are always in close proximity to our clients while on the job. We managed to evade COVID-19 by implementing certain measures, such as removing the visors from helmets so that our client’s breath could escape. I am really anxious about us potentially being among the first workers restricted from operating.”

Since September 27, the number of deaths from Marburg has risen to 12.

The symptoms encompass fever, diarrhea, and potentially result in death due to severe blood loss.